The 16th edition of the Salon international du tourisme et de l’hôtellerie de Ouagadougou (SITHO) recently concluded, with exhibitors expressing mixed feelings about their participation. While some reported satisfactory sales and valuable connections with visitors, others lamented the low turnout during the initial days. The cost of exhibition stands, lighting, and event promotion were among the concerns raised by participants. According to Kébré Samuel, a shoemaker, the market is not very buoyant, but he is satisfied with the encouragement received from people interested in his products.
Samuel noted that the attendance was not impressive, with most visitors arriving during the weekend. He attributed this to the approaching back-to-school season, which may have kept potential visitors busy with their preparations. Despite this, he commended the event organization, particularly the installation of air-conditioned rooms, which allowed clients to take their time exploring the stands. However, he suggested reducing the cost of stands to make participation more viable for exhibitors. Harouna Doumbia, a Malian jeweler, also participated in the event and reported making good sales compared to the previous year.
Doumbia, who has been participating in SITHO for two years, observed that most visitors are government employees or private sector workers who only have the weekend to explore the stands. He expressed satisfaction with the event organization but noted that the sanitary facilities and lighting could be improved. Ballo Kadidia, promoter of Dika Woussoulan, offered traditional products such as incense and perfumes. She reported good sales, particularly of her "secrets de femmes" product, and appreciated the opportunity to participate in the event.
Kadidia, who was participating physically for the first time, noted that the organization could be improved, citing issues with temperature control, lighting, and cleanliness. Despite these challenges, she expressed gratitude to her clients and appreciated their loyalty. Yara Habi, president of the association Yeentormen Kôkô Dûnda du Guiriko, reported a positive experience, citing improved publicity and a higher turnout compared to previous years.
Habi, who has participated in SITHO three times, appreciated the larger stands and overall organization but suggested reducing the cost of participation to make it more accessible to exhibitors from other regions. She also noted that the maintenance of sanitary facilities was better this year. Ramatou Barro of Alia Industrie, a company specializing in maize processing, participated in SITHO for the first time and reported a positive experience.
Barro noted that the market is responding well to their products, and they are grateful for the opportunity to participate in the event. However, they observed a lower-than-expected turnout, which may be due to limited awareness of the event. Despite this, they expressed satisfaction with the overall organization. The mixed reviews from exhibitors highlight areas for improvement in future editions of SITHO.
The 16th edition of SITHO has provided valuable insights for both exhibitors and organizers. While some participants reported satisfactory experiences, others highlighted challenges that need to be addressed. The event has demonstrated its potential to promote local products and services, but further efforts are needed to increase awareness and attract a larger audience.
Key points
- Exhibitors at SITHO 2026 reported mixed experiences, citing concerns about the cost of participation, lighting, and event promotion.
- The event organization was generally commended, but some participants suggested improvements to increase attendance and make participation more viable.
- Despite challenges, many exhibitors reported satisfactory sales and valuable connections with visitors.
