Bobo-dioulasso: The Agency for the Promotion of Community Entrepreneurship (APEC), a presidential initiative launched on June 12, 2023, by Captain Ibrahim Traore, is taking part in the 22nd edition of the National Culture Week in Bobo-Dioulasso, where its stand is registering significant enthusiasm around popular shareholding.
According to Burkina Information Agency, an AIB team visited the APEC stand on Saturday to observe firsthand the interest generated by this initiative among visitors, festival-goers, and potential subscribers. On-site, numerous citizens gathered to obtain information, join the program, or collect their membership booklets after subscribing. Those in charge of the booth held numerous explanation and awareness sessions to better explain the objectives and benefits of popular share ownership.
The lecturer and researcher, Dr. Olivier Combelem, praised the current momentum in Burkina Faso. He believes the country is on an encouraging trajectory that deserves the support of all Burkinabe. He emphasized that no one should be left behind, asserting that popular shareholding is a hopeful, community-based approach and invited hesitant citizens to join the movement.
Mose Nikiema, a geography student, echoed this sentiment, stating that the initiative offers promising prospects for both participants and the nation. He expressed optimism about future profits and the contribution to national development.
The stand also attracted visitors interested in products from established community-based businesses. Festival-goer Etienne Soma purchased A'diaa tomatoes, which he enjoyed, stating that the product reflects local quality and deserves wider consumption. He encouraged Burkinab¨ citizens to support domestic production by purchasing products from community initiatives.
The Director General of the Treasury and Public Accounting, Patinde W. Jean-Yves Belem, expressed support for APEC during National Culture Week and encouraged the organizers to continue their efforts while reaffirming his organization's backing.
According to Mathias Sawadogo, head of the service supporting subscriptions to popular shareholding, APEC's presence at the SNC is justified by the exceptional turnout. He reported that more than 15,000 people have been reached, including civil society actors, students, and pupils. He noted that popular shareholding has transitioned from concept to action with the realization of several community enterprises.
APEC operates in several strategic sectors, including agriculture, livestock farming, agri-food, mining, and textiles, aiming to promote endogenous and inclusive development based on the valorization of local resources and the involvement of all social strata. The advantages highlighted include return on investment, job creation, processing of local raw materials, creation of shared wealth, and strengthening of Burkina Faso's sovereignty in various domains.