Sankofa Events takes over Africa Oil Week, heralding a new era of inclusive energy dialogue

Africa Oil Week (AOW) – an African-based oil and gas conference – is to be acquired by Sankofa Events, a London-based startup founded in July 2024 under the leadership of Paul Sinclair – former Government Relations Executive of Africa Oil Week. The acquisition is aimed at transforming the event and will take the conference in a new direction, while continuing to promote investment and development in the African energy sector. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org), which represents the voice of the African energy sector, sees this strategic acquisition as a critical step towards creating a more inclusive dialogue on African energy issues. Under new ownership, AOW has the opportunity to redefine itself as an event that is not only Africa-based, but also Africa-driven.

For over 25 years, AOW has hosted an annual event in South Africa focused on supporting investment in African oil and gas projects. While the event has played a role in facilitating dialogue between African and global stakeholders, the decision to move the event to Dubai following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 highlighted the lack of respect for the continent. While Africa – particularly South Africa – was well-equipped and fully capable of hosting an international conference in a safe and productive manner, the decision to take the conversation on African energy off the continent effectively silenced and marginalized African voices. This was particularly devastating given that at a time when Africa needed investment the most, it was left out of the conversation.

The implications of AOW’s decision were far-reaching and damaging. It perpetuated the idea that African issues are better addressed outside of Africa, reinforcing damaging stereotypes and power dynamics. Furthermore, it deprived African energy professionals, entrepreneurs, key players, policymakers and African citizens of a crucial platform to move forward. By putting convenience and profit above principles and solidarity, AOW betrayed its commitment to Africa’s energy development. Despite its focus on many African countries and their energy potential, most were unable to travel to the event due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As such, the move to Dubai was a painful reminder of the industry’s historical exploitation and neglect of African interests.

“To achieve its goals of becoming an electrified and industrialised economy, Africa needs cooperation, unity and partnerships. The decision to relocate AOW to foreign soil was antithetical to all these aspects. Sankofa Events has a unique and strategic opportunity to turn this conference around, by addressing the polarisation and divisions that have been perpetuated by previous ownership,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

Now, through the acquisition of AOW, Sankofa Events aims to address this unfair decision head-on by transforming the event into an African-led platform. The acquisition not only creates the opportunity for a change in ownership, but also the introduction of fresh perspectives that align closely with Africa’s goals as a continent. Led by an African startup, AOW has the chance to redefine its narrative and play a more central role in driving impactful change in Africa.

“As a leading advocate for Africa’s energy development, AEC looks forward to working with Sankofa Events to promote the continent’s energy potential, stimulate economic growth and enhance collaboration among African energy stakeholders. We believe this new chapter for AOW will contribute to a more united and prosperous energy community in Africa,” Ayuk added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.