National Director of SEMAFO Burkina Elected President of the Burkina Faso Professional Mining Association

SEMAFO TSX-SMF

MONTREAL, Nov. 17 /CNW Telbec/ - SEMAFO (TSX: SMF) today announced the election of Mr. Elie Justin Ouedraogo, National Director, SEMAFO Burkina Faso SA to the position of President of the Burkina Professional Mining Association (GPMB) during the group's general meeting last week in Ouagadougou.

"As President-elect to this position, Mr. Ouedraogo will act as the resource and spokesperson for the entire mining sector to Burkinabe government officials, social representatives and institutional partners," said Benoit La Salle, SEMAFO's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Mr. Ouedraogo's experience, including his tenure as Burkina Faso's Minister of Energy and Mines from 1995 to 2000 will serve him well as he takes on this new role. There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Ouedraogo will be an excellent president." Mr. La Salle added, "This is the second time this year that one of SEMAFO's national directors has been nominated to lead a professional mining association; this is truly a testimony to the strength of our regional leaders."

Mr. Ouedraogo said that he is honored by the nomination and is committed to continue to expand the association's activities to support the interests of the mining sector and reinforce their contribution to the development of the country.

Mr. Elie Ouedraogo will maintain his role as a National Director, SEMAFO Burkina Faso SA.

About SEMAFO

SEMAFO is a Canadian-based mining company with gold production and exploration activities in West Africa. The Company currently operates three gold mines in Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea. SEMAFO is committed to evolve in a conscientious manner to become a major player in its geographical area of interest, while maintaining principles and strengthening relationships to increase shareholder value.

For further information: SEMAFO: Benoit La Salle, President & CEO, (514) 744-4408, Toll-Free: 1-888-744-4408, blasalle@semafo.com; Sofia St Laurent, Communications, (514) 744-4408, Toll-Free: 1-888-744-4408, sstlaurent@semafo.com