The Burkinabè Economic and Social Development Fund (FBDES) TÕOGO is participating in the 18th edition of the Ouagadougou International Handicraft Fair (SIAO), which opened on November 2, 2026. The fund's Director-General, Ahmadé Nour Guenda, visited the stands allocated to beneficiaries of the fund, showcasing their products and highlighting the opportunities provided by this support.
The FBDES TÕOGO has allocated eleven stands to beneficiaries, including entrepreneurs who have received direct financing or incubation support. This initiative aims to provide these economic actors with an exhibition space, promotion, and commercial prospecting. The fund's presence at SIAO aligns with its mission to support local artisans and those engaged in transformation and industrialization.
Ahmadé Nour Guenda emphasized that the FBDES is committed to supporting Burkinabè entrepreneurs, promoting the "consume what we produce and produce what we consume" policy advocated by the country's high authorities. During his visit, he noted the progress made by supported companies, particularly in product quality and presentation.
The SIAO offers beneficiaries an opportunity to meet new clients, gather feedback on their products, and establish business relationships. The goal is to foster complementarity between traditional craftsmanship and industrialization, enabling larger-scale production.
Beneficiaries of the FBDES TÕOGO, such as Bénédicte Ily of Beni Agro Shop, Denise Odette Zouro of Odiss Cosmetics, and Balkissou Bangagné of Ferme Nour, showcased their diverse products and highlighted the positive impact of the fund's support. They appreciated the opportunity to exhibit their products and connect with potential clients.
The FBDES TÕOGO was established through the merger of seven former national financing funds. Its mission is to support the development of productive and inclusive entrepreneurship in Burkina Faso, particularly through support for artisans, transformers, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The fund offers various financing mechanisms, including investment and operating credits, Songtaaba credit, market pre-financing, and project co-financing. Its objective is to contribute to the consolidation of enterprises, job creation, and the valorization of local productions, as reflected in its motto: "Financing audacity, building national sovereignty".
Key points
- FBDES TÕOGO supports Burkinabè entrepreneurs at SIAO 2026 with exhibition stands and business opportunities.
- The fund's support enables entrepreneurs to showcase their products, connect with potential clients, and establish business relationships.
- FBDES TÕOGO aims to promote complementarity between traditional craftsmanship and industrialization, contributing to the country's economic development.
