Burkina Faso: Captain Ibrahim Traoré and his government committed to tourism in Burkina Faso with SITHO 2023

The government of President Ibrahim Traoré is firmly committed to promoting tourism in Burkina Faso, demonstrating its dedication to the country’s economic and social development. The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Bétanou Fidèle Aymar Tamini, announced the resumption of the International Tourism and Hospitality Fair of Ouagadougou (SITHO) during a press conference in Ouagadougou on August 24, 2023.

The 13th edition of this event will take place from October 26 to 29, 2023, at the International Handicrafts Fair of Ouagadougou (SIAO) site.

Under the theme «Promotion of internal tourism as a resilience factor», this edition will also mark the joint organization of SITHO and the International Showcase of Tourism, Hospitality, and Catering of Ouagadougou (VITHRO).

This initiative aims to highlight the tourist and cultural riches of Burkina Faso while showing the world that the «Land of Honest People» is a highly recommended destination.

The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of these events in showcasing Burkina Faso’s tourism potential and supporting the efforts of private sector players, who have continued their activities despite challenges posed by the crisis and negative publicity.

The joint hosting of SITHO-VITHRO provides an exceptional opportunity to increase the visibility of Burkinabe tourism products and activities on a national and international scale, while boosting domestic tourism.

For this 13th edition, the guest of honor region is the Center-South (Manga), chosen for its rich cultural heritage, notably the Royal Palace of Tiébélé.

Efforts are underway to have this site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, underscoring its significance.

The commitment of President Ibrahim Traoré’s government to the development of tourism in Burkina Faso is evident, and SITHO 2023 promises to be a major event to showcase the treasures of this beautiful country.

Olivier TOE