More than 6,000 exhibitors from around 30 countries are expected in Ouagadougou from October 30 to November 8 for the 18th edition of the Ouagadougou International Arts and Crafts Fair (SIAO), organizers announced.
This edition is also expected to attract nearly 800,000 visitors, 350 journalists and more than 100 buyers, reflecting the event’s ambition to showcase African craftsmanship and promote the marketing of locally made products.
Held under the theme “African Crafts and Industrialization: What Synergies for Better Organization and Promotion of Local Products and Cultural Heritage?”, the event aims to strengthen ties between traditional crafts and processing industries.
Ghana will be the guest of honor, while Mali and Niger will participate as special guest countries.
The program includes exhibitions and sales, business meetings, a creativity contest, competitions among artisans and a seminar dedicated to the event’s central theme. Thematic workshops will also highlight the diversity of traditional crafts and artisanal trades.
Organizers have also announced several new features, including the creation of a dedicated space for the guest of honor and an increase in the number of entrance gates to facilitate visitor access and movement around the venue.
Security is another major priority for this edition. Aguima Abdoulaziz Yonli, head of the security committee, assured that defense and security forces would be mobilized to prevent incidents and reduce waiting times.
Several awards will recognize outstanding artisans for their creativity, quality and innovation.
Through its 18th edition, SIAO aims to position craftsmanship as a driver of economic development by encouraging the processing of local resources, promoting Africa’s cultural heritage and opening up new commercial opportunities for artisans.
