In his book, "Le grimoire de l'événementiel en Afrique de l'Ouest," Mamadou Baïlo Danso presents a bold vision to change the way events are organized in West Africa. He aims to shift the perception of event planning from a series of one-off initiatives to a structured, professional, and competitive industry. Danso identifies several challenges facing the sector, including a lack of structuring, insufficient professionalization, and a reliance on improvisation.
Danso's book is the result of 15 years of experience in the event industry, during which he observed over 250 events and consulted with 40 leading figures in the sector. The book offers more than just technical advice; it proposes a philosophy of event planning. A key feature of the book is the 60 laws that Danso outlines to help professionals rethink their practices.
The author believes that success in event planning depends on discipline, preparation, anticipation, and responsibility, rather than just budget or imitation of international models. This approach is particularly relevant in the African context, where large events are becoming more common, but organization often remains rudimentary. Danso advocates for a change in mindset, considering event planning as a full-fledged economic and cultural sector.
Danso's vision emphasizes the importance of integrating local realities, cultural heritage, and know-how into professional standards. He seeks to demonstrate how African specificities can be combined with contemporary professional requirements. This fusion of tradition and modernity is a key aspect of his approach. Event planning, in this view, becomes a space where culture, economy, communication, tourism, creativity, and identity intersect.
The book is aimed at a broad audience, including promoters, technicians, cultural entrepreneurs, communicators, institutions, and members of the diaspora. Its goal is to contribute to the emergence of a new generation of professionals capable of creating a genuine African event ecosystem. Danso's own background as an entrepreneur, communication strategist, digital marketing specialist, and cultural event producer informs his perspective.
Danso's work is also a plea for a sovereign cultural industry in Africa. He argues that professionalizing event planning can create jobs, valorize talents, stimulate creative industries, attract investment, and enhance the attractiveness of territories. With his book, Danso opens a crucial debate: how can Africa's immense creativity be transformed into a genuine economic, cultural, and professional force?
Danso's book, published by L'Harmattan Guinée, consists of 9 chapters and 200 pages. It provides practical advice and a framework for rethinking event planning in West Africa. The book's release marks a significant contribution to the sector, offering a comprehensive guide for professionals and stakeholders.
Key points
- Mamadou Baïlo Danso releases a book outlining a vision for a professional and competitive event industry in West Africa.
- The book, "Le grimoire de l'événementiel en Afrique de l'Ouest," offers practical advice and a philosophy of event planning based on 15 years of experience.
- Danso advocates for integrating local realities and cultural heritage into professional standards to create a genuine African event ecosystem.
