The 16th edition of the International Exhibition of Crafts Ouagadougou (SIAO), organized under the theme “African crafts, development lever and factor of the resilience of the people” began in the presence of the President of the transition of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, who proceeded to the inauguration of exhibitions.
This edition of the SIAO, which has as a guest of honor the Ivory Coast, has recorded the participation of more than thousands of visitors from more than 20 countries of the world. Thus, more than 350 craftsmen will be able to exhibit their creations.
The participants come from several countries such as Morocco, Mali, Iran, Benin, Senegal, Pakistan, and Madagascar.
Handicrafts contribute up to 30% to the GDP of African countries, according to the Burkinabe Minister in charge of handicrafts Serge Gnaniodem Poda. However, the sector needs more support and funding.
Created in 1984, the SIAO is considered one of the most important fairs in Africa and is a showcase for African crafts. It is held every two years and aims to present the African craft offered to the rest of the world.
Jihan Rmili