In celebration of World Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day, Burkina Faso has placed the spotlight on innovation and local resilience through a national conference dedicated to promoting “Made in Burkina Faso” products.
Hosted in Ouagadougou by the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Handicrafts, the event was organized in collaboration with the Agency for the Financing and Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises (AFP-PME).
This year’s theme, “Promoting Innovative ‘Made in Burkina Faso’ Products: What Resilience Strategies for Economic Sovereignty?”, underscored the nation’s push for economic self-reliance through domestic innovation.
Keynote speaker Gervais Marie Raoul Nadembega emphasized that promoting locally made, innovative products is not merely an economic opportunity—it is a national necessity.
“The promotion of national products is a strategic imperative for African nations, particularly Burkina Faso in the context of the AES,” he said, referring to the Alliance of Sahel States.
Representing the Secretary-General of the Ministry, Joseph Zerbo highlighted the government’s recent strides in industrial development, especially through small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“In recent years, the government has initiated numerous actions that have helped develop the industrial fabric,” he noted.
Among the flagship initiatives cited was the official decree mandating school uniforms made from local Faso Danfani and Koko Dunda fabrics, along with the certification of four traditional Burkinabè products: Faso Danfani, Koko Dunda, shea butter, and the Saponé hat.
Zerbo added that through AFP-PME, the government continues to support MSMEs with both financial aid and vocational training, aiming to expand youth employment opportunities.
“This conference is a chance for young people to explore themes of economic sovereignty and resilience, and to take initiative in launching their own enterprises,” he said.
AFP-PME Director General Issa Traoré echoed this sentiment, stating that each year’s MSME Day serves as a platform to cultivate entrepreneurial spirit among the youth.
“They are seen as the incubators and drivers of SMEs,” he explained, affirming that the agency provides ongoing support for business creation, growth, and sustainability.
As Burkina Faso marks MSME Day, the message is clear: the path to economic independence begins with homegrown innovation and empowered youth.
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