Tenkodogo: The fifth edition of the Nakambe Regional Handicrafts Fair (SARA) concluded in Tenkodogo, celebrating themes of social cohesion, innovation, and national sovereignty. The closing ceremony, overseen by the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Handicrafts on behalf of the Prime Minister, featured the presentation of 14 awards recognizing the event’s top artisans.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the eight-day SARA 2025 fair attracted over 750 artisans from all 17 regions of Burkina Faso as well as participants from eight foreign countries. The event was centered around the theme: “Burkinabe crafts and industrialization: what contribution to national sovereignty?”
In the closing remarks delivered by Minister Serge Pooda, the Prime Minister commended the “resilience, professionalism and ingenuity” of Burkinabe artisans, highlighting the role of crafts as “a factor of social cohesion, employment and economic development.”
This year’s edition introduced several key initiatives, including the issuance of 500 national identity cards to vulnerable individuals, distribution of 116 professional cards to artisans, and the promotion of the Nakambe region’s artisanal potential for tourism.
The fair celebrated the achievements of its participants with numerous awards, such as the ‘Thomas Sankara’ National Sovereignty Prize, which was given to an artisan for crafting presidential armchairs from 100% Burkinabe leather, embodying local pride and expertise.
Additional accolades included the FBDES Prize for Innovation, awarded to an artisan utilizing local materials, and the UNDP Prize, which recognized contributions to social cohesion through craftsmanship.
The Ministry of Commerce also honored excellence in agri-food, textiles, and leather industries with three prizes totaling 3,600,000 CFA francs, offering winners air-conditioned stands for the next edition of SIAO.
SARA 2025 drew significant attention with over 2,500 daily visitors, 320 booths, and participation from more than 40 artists, reinforcing its role as a key platform for Burkinabe creativity. Colonel Aboudou Karim Lamizana, Governor of the Nakambe Region and President of the Organizing Committee, commended the artisans’ collective efforts to establish crafts as a cornerstone of national sovereignty.
As the ceremony concluded, the mandate for hosting the next edition was passed to the Bankui region, which will host the 6th edition in Dedougou in 2027. The upcoming theme, “Burkinabe crafts and digital transition: what opportunities to strengthen national sovereignty?” promises continued exploration of crafts as an engine for national development.
The 5th edition of SARA served as more than an exhibition; it was a testament to resilience, unity, and optimism for Burkina Faso, where artisans play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future.