Ouagadougou: The organizing committee for the 17th edition of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO) has confirmed that extensive security measures are being implemented for the event, ensuring a peaceful environment for participants and visitors.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Oumarou Barro, the vice-president of the SIAO organizing committee and Secretary General of the Ministry in charge of Handicrafts, addressed the media on Thursday detailing the security preparations for the upcoming fair. Barro highlighted the involvement of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) to maintain order and safety during the event. “As far as security is concerned, I can assure you that all arrangements have been made by our valiant Defense and Security Forces for the holding of the Show in complete peace of mind,” Barro stated.
The fair, which is set to run from October 25 to November 3, 2024, will see significant participation from regional and international exhibitors. Barro disclosed that over 2,000
exhibitors have registered, with more than 80% of the 700 available stands already reserved. The event will feature air-conditioned and ventilated pavilions to accommodate the exhibitors and visitors comfortably.
Highlighting the theme of this edition, “African crafts, youth entrepreneurship and empowerment,” the general director of SIAO, Mariam Traoré/Ouédraogo, emphasized the importance of crafts as a viable avenue for entrepreneurship and self-reliance, particularly for the youth. “In crafts, you can be an entrepreneur. The ideal is for young people to undertake in the direction of crafts and even more jobs instead of going to the request for jobs at all times where diplomas are stagnated but there are really no jobs,” Traoré/Ouédraogo explained.
She further elaborated on the innovations introduced in this year’s fair, including a new digital platform “e-SIAO,” the “AES Village,” “living workshops,” and play areas for children, designed to enhance the experience and engagement at the fair.
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Traoré/Ouédraogo mentioned the support mechanisms in place for artisans, such as regional pools created every year by SIAO to provide stands to all 13 regions, allowing them to showcase their innovation and know-how.
The selection of Mali and Niger as special guests reflects the fair’s objective to strengthen regional cooperation and highlight the rich artisanal, tourist, and cultural heritage of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).