In celebration of the 18th edition of the Ouagadougou International Handicraft Fair (SIAO), SITARAIL has provided a free train for artisans from the Guiriko region to travel to Ouagadougou with their goods. The initiative, dubbed "Train de l'Artisanat," was launched on October 28, 2026, at the Bobo-Dioulasso railway station. A hundred artisans benefited from this operation, which aims to alleviate the financial and logistical difficulties faced by artisans when traveling to major commercial events.
The free train service was made possible by mobilizing an entire train car, with over 300 available seats and a cargo capacity of 282 tonnes. According to Alexis Ouédraogo, SITARAIL representative in Burkina Faso, a hundred artisans boarded at Bobo-Dioulasso, alongside ordinary passengers. This initiative is part of SITARAIL's efforts to support Burkinabe artisans and facilitate their participation in international events promoting traditional craftsmanship.
Artisans who benefited from the free train service have expressed their gratitude to SITARAIL for this concrete support. Ali Prosper Traoré, head of Pro Couture, welcomed the free transportation, particularly for goods, which usually represents a significant expense. He recalled the difficulties encountered during previous trips, including costs related to luggage transportation and the risk of delays.
Mariam Savadogo, a seamstress and promoter of a sewing center, also praised the initiative, saying it demonstrates the interest shown in artisans and facilitates their travel and product transportation. She expressed her gratitude to the authorities and SITARAIL for this action, which will enable artisans to participate more easily in the SIAO.
The authorities have welcomed SITARAIL's initiative, describing it as a civic and patriotic action. Souleymane Nakanabo, secretary general of the Guiriko region, representing the governor, expressed his recognition of SITARAIL's efforts and encouraged artisans to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their skills and products.
The "Train de l'Artisanat" initiative is part of SITARAIL's ongoing efforts to support Burkinabe artisans, following previous initiatives such as the "Train de la Culture" and the "Train du Tourisme." By providing free transportation, SITARAIL aims to facilitate artisans' participation in major events and promote their creations to a wider audience.
The SIAO, which will take place in Ouagadougou, will provide a platform for Burkinabe artisans to showcase their skills and products, contributing to the country's cultural and economic development. With SITARAIL's support, artisans from the Guiriko region will be able to participate more easily in the event, promoting their region's rich cultural heritage.
Key points
- SITARAIL provides free train for a hundred artisans from Guiriko region to attend SIAO 2026.
- The initiative aims to alleviate financial and logistical difficulties faced by artisans when traveling to major commercial events.
- The free train service has a cargo capacity of 282 tonnes and over 300 available seats.
