Ouagadougou: Mali has been awarded the Grand Prize at the 17th edition of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO). The prestigious accolade, valued at 3,000,000 CFA francs, was presented for the best stand, as announced by the international jury on Friday.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the second prize, carrying a value of 2,000,000 CFA francs, was secured by Niger. Burkina Faso took home the third prize, which is valued at 1,500,000 CFA francs. The Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) also recognized notable contributions in the arts, awarding the Thomas Sankara Special Prize for Creativity to Adama Sylla. This prize, worth 3,000,000 CFA francs, honors the best African work in the Creativity Pavilion that embodies the ideals of President Thomas Sankara.

The European Union contributed to the event by awarding six works, each receiving 1,000,000 CFA francs. Other organizations also distributed awards for outstanding craftsmanship. The 17th edition of SIAO is scheduled to take place fro
m October 25 to November 3, 2024, under the theme: ‘African crafts, youth entrepreneurship and empowerment.’