Unveiling the Vibrant Spirit of Africa: SIAO 2024 Throws Open its Doors to a World of Exquisite Crafts

Let’s go for the 17th edition of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO) which will be held between October 25 and November 2, 2024. It will be a means to reflect on the theme: “African crafts, entrepreneurship and youth empowerment”. The official opening was held on October 25 under the presidency of the Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, in the presence of the patron of the ceremony, Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, president of the Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT), the Minister of Crafts, Serge Poda and representatives of the countries who are the guests of honor for the edition.

For ten days, Ouagadougou will vibrate to the rhythm of the 17th edition of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO). The largest African craft fair, this 2024 edition records participation: 4,000 exhibitors, and at least 50 buyers and professional visitors from five continents; 350,000 public visitors. Another bet won by the country of the men of integrity according to the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré in his speech read by the Minister of Crafts, Serge Poda. This, in the sense that, despite the security context marked by terrorist attacks and multiple attempts to paint the country red, Burkina Faso was able to succeed in the challenge. According to him, the holding of this edition and the presence of delegations from Africa and elsewhere is the fruit of the unwavering resilience of the Burkinabe people who are united behind their fighting forces. This edition is held under the theme “African crafts, youth entrepreneurship and empowerment”. This theme in his opinion reveals the importance of capital because it highlights the decisive role of crafts in the economic and social development of Africa while underlining the participation and commitment of youth in this sector.
Crafts, a key sector of the African economy
Crafts are a key sector of the African economy, according to Captain Ibrahim Traoré, it contributes to more than 20% of the continent’s GDP and employs more than 60 million people, mainly young people. It is a vital source of income for many households while creating a vital stimulus for growth and poverty reduction. However, African crafts are facing significant challenges which are exacerbated by the security crisis affecting several countries in the sub-region. In addition to this there is a lack of qualification and professional training. Despite these challenges, Burkina Faso has been able to implement dynamic initiatives to support and promote the artisanal sector, including the establishment of days dedicated to local consumption. This shows the firm commitment of the government and players in the sector to make crafts a pillar of economic development while promoting a strong and autonomous African identity.
The sponsor of this edition, Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, president of the Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) welcomed the hosting of this edition of the Salon which is proof, once again, that Burkina Faso will stand and remain rigid. He expressed his gratitude to all the Burkinabè people for all the actions that make it possible to resist all kinds of adversities that the country is facing. For him, the craft sector, which has long remained on the margins of development priorities, deserves special attention and significant support. To do this, he encourages those who take part in this edition to join in the reflection on the theme of this 17th edition and to make constructive and positive contributions. He ensured his commitment and the commitment of the national representation to support all initiatives and methods that tend to make crafts a sector that participates in the transformation of the country’s economy. It must be said that this opening was marked by performances of dances and artists.
Aïcha TRAORE