SIARC 2026 to Run July 27-Aug. 5 in Yaounde, Spotlighting African Craftsmanship

The ninth edition of the Cameroon International Handicrafts Fair (SIARC 2026) will take place from July 27 to August 5 at the National Museum in Yaounde, with this year’s event focusing on innovation, business exchanges and the promotion of African craftsmanship.

Organized by the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA), the fair will be held under the theme, “Between Tradition and Modernity: How Can We Foster Innovation in Handicrafts?” It will bring together artisans, designers, business professionals and craft enthusiasts from Cameroon and abroad to discuss the modernization of the handicrafts sector while creating new market opportunities for producers.

Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire will participate as guest countries of honor. Their presence is expected to enrich the program through exhibitions, cultural exchanges and discussions showcasing the diversity of African craftsmanship and artisanal traditions.

SIARC 2026 will feature exhibition and sales stands, national heritage days, dedicated sessions for the guest countries of honor, thematic conferences, professional training workshops, competitions recognizing outstanding artisans, business meetings and cultural performances.

Beyond its cultural dimension, the fair is intended to serve as a business platform linking producers, buyers, entrepreneurs and institutions across the handicrafts value chain. Business-to-business meetings and networking sessions are expected to facilitate partnerships, improve market access and promote locally made products.

The program will also include economic conferences and practical workshops on innovation, production techniques and the competitiveness of artisanal enterprises, with the aim of supporting small-scale producers and strengthening the sector’s contribution to economic activity.

Organized under the High Patronage of the President of Cameroon and coordinated by MINPMEESA under the leadership of Minister Achille Bassilekin III, SIARC 2026 is expected to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, skills development and the promotion of African craftsmanship.

Mercy Fosoh