On November 4, 2026, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, President of the National Assembly of the People (ALP), Ousmane Bougouma, visited the stands of various regions, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) village, and the artisanal village at the 18th edition of the International Artisanal Fair of Ouagadougou (SIAO). The fair continues to showcase African artisans' creativity and expertise. Bougouma's visit aimed to encourage African artisans, particularly those from Burkina Faso, by discovering their works and understanding their needs.
During his visit, President Bougouma expressed his admiration for the high-quality works on display, which demonstrate the creative genius, expertise, and ingenuity of local artisans. He emphasized the significance of the fair's theme in the current context of seeking economic sovereignty. According to Bougouma, economic sovereignty can only be achieved through industrialization, which requires organizing different sectors of activity. The ALP plans to contribute to the sector's valorization through special prizes.
The National Assembly of the People will award two categories of special prizes. The first prize, named after Thomas Sankara, is worth 3 million CFA francs and aims to recognize artisans' ingenuity and innovation. This prize seeks to honor Sankara's legacy, who championed artisans, and ensure his vision continues. The second prize, worth 3 million 250,000 CFA francs, is called the "Regions Prize" and concerns the 17 regional stands visited by the delegation.
President Bougouma explained that the Regions Prize aims to encourage creativity among artisans in different regions. He stated that the ALP's visit was not only to commend artisans' work but also to emphasize that artisans contribute to economic sovereignty. Bougouma encouraged the population to visit the SIAO, discover the exhibited works, and prioritize local products consumption, enabling artisans to contribute more to the national economy.
The President of the ALP expressed his satisfaction with the fair's organization and the quality of works on display. He noted that the SIAO provides a platform for artisans to showcase their creations, and the ALP is committed to supporting the sector. Bougouma's visit demonstrates the government's interest in promoting artisans and the creative industry.
The 18th edition of the SIAO has brought together artisans from various regions, and the fair continues to attract visitors. The event provides an opportunity for artisans to network, share ideas, and learn from each other. President Bougouma's visit has highlighted the importance of supporting artisans and the creative sector in achieving economic sovereignty.
In conclusion, President Ousmane Bougouma's visit to the SIAO 2026 has emphasized the government's commitment to promoting artisans and the creative industry. The ALP's special prizes aim to encourage innovation and creativity among artisans. The President has encouraged the population to support artisans by visiting the SIAO and prioritizing local products consumption.
Key points
- President Ousmane Bougouma visited SIAO 2026 to encourage African artisans and highlight their creative works.
- The ALP will award special prizes to recognize artisans' ingenuity and innovation.
- The President emphasized the importance of supporting artisans in achieving economic sovereignty.
