Mali and Niger celebrate Sahelian fraternity at Ouagadougou craft fair
The 18th edition of the Salon international de l'artisanat de Ouagadougou dedicated a special day to Mali and Niger, celebrating shared heritage and economic ties.
Mali and Niger, special guests at the 18th Salon international de l'artisanat de Ouagadougou (SIAO), celebrated their dedicated day on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. Authorities and craft sector representatives from the three Alliance des États du Sahel (AES) countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic, cultural, and professional exchanges.
The event, focused on showcasing local products and awarding artisans, highlighted fraternity and integration within the AES. Alassane Ouédraogo, secretary general of Burkina Faso's Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Artisans, welcomed the Malian and Nigerien delegations, noting their participation gave the SIAO edition a special dimension.
Ouédraogo stated that Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are linked by common history, traditions, and aspirations for development, with this fraternity now finding new momentum through the AES confederation. He urged concrete adoption of this vision by populations and economic actors, particularly through trade and private sector initiatives.
Why it mattersThe event directly affects artisans and craft sector representatives from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger by promoting their work and fostering economic cooperation.