Chad celebrated its National Handicraft Day on September 24, 2026, highlighting the sector's economic potential and encouraging increased consumption of local products. The government, through the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Handicrafts, launched a campaign to promote "Made in Chad" products. This initiative aims to support local artisans and develop the handicraft sector. Minister Abakar Rozzi Teguil emphasized the importance of handicrafts in Chad's cultural heritage and economy.

The National Handicraft Day was established by decree n°863 on November 4, 2010. This year's celebration focuses on valorizing local know-how and the role of handicrafts in Chad's economy. According to Minister Abakar Rozzi Teguil, handicrafts encompass a wide range of products, including leather, clay, wood, plant fibers, metal, and textiles. These products not only represent Chad's cultural heritage but also provide a source of income for many families, particularly young people and women.

Minister Abakar Rozzi Teguil urged citizens to support local products by promoting the "Made in Chad" label, which guarantees quality, authenticity, and national know-how. He encouraged administrations to incorporate local products into their ceremonies and events, and companies to use Chadian artisans for their institutional gifts, decorations, and activities. By doing so, the government aims to create a stronger, more structured handicraft sector.

To achieve this goal, the government plans to improve the design, packaging, competitiveness, and capacity of artisans to meet market demands. The Ministry of Handicrafts recognizes that quality is a significant challenge for the sector and is working to address this issue. By supporting local artisans and promoting "Made in Chad" products, the government hopes to boost the sector's economic potential and create new opportunities for Chadian citizens.

The government also aims to strengthen the links between handicrafts and tourism. Handicraft products could serve as promotional tools for Chadian culture, attracting foreign visitors and generating revenue. By developing the handicraft sector, the government hopes to create a new source of economic growth and employment opportunities for Chadians.

Abakar Rozzi Teguil's call to action is clear: "Achetons tchadien!" or "Let's buy Chadian!" The minister's message emphasizes the importance of supporting local products and promoting the handicraft sector. By working together, the government and Chadian citizens can develop a thriving handicraft industry that showcases the country's rich cultural heritage and contributes to its economic growth.

The celebration of National Handicraft Day highlights the significance of the sector in Chad's economy and culture. With a focus on promoting local products and improving the sector's quality and competitiveness, the government is committed to developing the handicraft industry and creating new opportunities for Chadian citizens. The "Made in Chad" label is set to become a symbol of quality and authenticity, synonymous with Chadian handicrafts.

Key points

  • The Chadian government is promoting the "Made in Chad" label to support local artisans and develop the handicraft sector.
  • The sector provides a source of income for many families, particularly young people and women.
  • The government aims to strengthen the links between handicrafts and tourism to create new opportunities for economic growth.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.