Niger: 13th edition of SAFEM, a lever for promoting women’s crafts and strengthening regional integration
The 13th Salon International de l’Artisanat pour la Femme (SAFEM) (International Women’s Artisan Fair) was inaugurated on Friday, December 6, 2024, in Niamey, under the theme “Promoting Intellectual Property and Accelerating Financial Inclusion for Women Artisans.”
Opening the event, Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine emphasized the importance of craftsmanship as a cultural ambassador for the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), highlighting its role as a symbol of national identity.
This year’s SAFEM coincides with Niger’s strategic partnership with Burkina Faso and Mali in establishing the Confederation of Sahel States.
The Prime Minister noted this union provides a platform for allied countries to share experiences, elevating SAFEM’s international significance.
Underscoring the need for protecting women artisans’ creations, he advocated for intellectual property rights to ensure economic benefits.
He also called for increased digitalization to enhance the visibility and profitability of artisan activities, enabling the government to better assess their contribution to the national economy.
Artisan Minister Soufiane Agaichata Guichene praised SAFEM’s dual mission of celebrating Niger’s rich heritage and fostering women’s economic empowerment.
She highlighted the government’s stabilization efforts in regions like Diffa, designated the “Showcase Region” of the event, and outlined key objectives such as modernizing production methods, improving access to financing, and establishing small-scale processing units.
Running alongside SAFEM, the 2nd Niger Furniture Fair (SANIME) aims to spotlight local woodworking talent, focusing on standardizing products and increasing their affordability.
With Togo as the guest of honor and over 25 countries participating, this edition underscores SAFEM’s role as a driver of regional integration and cultural preservation, standing as a beacon of resilience and economic growth for the Sahel.
Fayçal BADIE
