OUAGADOUGOU: The Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO) is set to open its doors for the 17th edition, with the national organizing committee reportedly prepared to host the event. Minister of Crafts Serge Poda expressed confidence in the preparedness of the committee during a recent site visit, assuring that residual challenges are being addressed ahead of the fair.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Poda emphasized that the organizing committee is over 90% ready to accommodate the anticipated 350,000 to 400,000 visitors. The minister’s visit on Monday aimed to evaluate the situation and ensure that any remaining obstacles are swiftly resolved to welcome international participants effectively.
The upcoming edition of SIAO, scheduled from October 25 to November 3, 2024, will feature several innovations. One notable addition is the introduction of “SIAO Kids,” a segment dedicated to educating children about crafts. Furthermore, the ministry has launched an e-SIAO platform to streamline
the reservation process for artisans and visitors, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.
Minister Poda also highlighted the implementation of safety and hygiene protocols to ensure a secure environment for all attendees. The theme for this year’s event is ‘African Crafts: Youth Entrepreneurship and Empowerment,’ and it will be held under the patronage of President Ibrahim Traoré.