By Kwabia Owusu-Mensah
Obuasi (Ash), Oct. 26, GNA – AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, in collaboration with Endeavour Mining, is set to host the West Africa Mine Rescue and Emergency Response Competition (WAMRERC 2026) from November 02 to 06, 2026, in Obuasi.
The competition is a landmark initiative to strengthen mine safety, emergency preparedness, and response capabilities across the West African mining industry.
The competition, which is the first in West Africa to be jointly hosted by two major mining companies, will bring together mine rescue teams, emergency response professionals, government representatives, regulators, industry leaders, and service providers from across the region.
The five-day event will provide a platform for participants to demonstrate their technical expertise, test their emergency response capabilities, and exchange knowledge and best practices in mine rescue, casualty management, and operational resilience.
The WAMRERC 2026 is designed to promote excellence in emergency response, while strengthening collaboration among mining companies and other stakeholders in addressing the complex safety challenges associated with mining operations.
The competition draws inspiration from internationally recognised events, including the International Mine Rescue Competition and the Toughest Firefighter Challenge, while incorporating specialised technical rescue disciplines relevant to the mining industry.
Through practical exercises and technical challenges, participating teams are expected to demonstrate their readiness to respond effectively to emergencies, manage casualties, and protect lives in high-risk operational environments.
Beyond the competitive activities, the event is expected to contribute to the continuous development of mine rescue capabilities across West Africa by encouraging professional networking, knowledge-sharing, and the adoption of effective emergency response practices.
The hosting of WAMRERC 2026 further positions Obuasi as a meeting point for regional mining professionals and highlights the importance of partnerships in advancing safety, preparedness, and operational excellence.
As preparations continue, the organisers are encouraging relevant organisations and industry stakeholders to participate in and support the competition, which aims to reinforce a shared commitment to protecting lives and strengthening emergency response systems across West Africa.
The West Africa Mine Rescue and Emergency Response Competition 2026 will take place at Bruno Park in Obuasi.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah