The 9th edition of the Cameroon International Handicraft Exhibition (SIARC) has officially opened in Yaounde, bringing together artisans, entrepreneurs, investors and cultural stakeholders from Cameroon and abroad to celebrate the country's rich handicraft heritage and promote innovation in the sector.
The exhibition was officially opened by Prime Minister, Head of Government, Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, on behalf of President Paul Biya, at the National Museum in Yaounde. The event is taking place from July 27 to August 5, 2026 under the theme: "Between Tradition and Modernity: How to Stimulate Innovation?"
The opening ceremony brought together members of government, diplomats, traditional rulers, development partners, exhibitors and hundreds of visitors who turned out to witness the launch of one of Cameroon's biggest craft exhibitions.
Speaking during the ceremony, Prime Minister Dion Ngute reaffirmed government's commitment to making handicrafts a major driver of economic growth, job creation and cultural promotion. He said the sector remains an important pillar for achieving inclusive development by creating employment opportunities, especially for young people and women, while preserving Cameroon's rich cultural identity.
Organised by the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA), SIARC serves as an international platform for artisans to showcase their products, exchange experiences, build business partnerships and access new markets.
This year's edition features hundreds of exhibitors displaying a wide range of locally made products, including traditional fabrics, wood carvings, sculptures, jewellery, leather works, pottery, baskets, furniture and decorative items. Visitors also have the opportunity to discover modern innovations that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary technology and design.
Beyond the exhibition of products, SIARC 2026 includes business-to-business meetings, training workshops, conferences and networking sessions aimed at improving the competitiveness of Cameroon's handicraft industry. The fair also provides a platform for artisans to learn new production techniques, explore digital marketing opportunities and attract investors interested in the creative economy.
Government officials say the exhibition reflects Cameroon's ambition to position handicrafts as an important contributor to sustainable development and economic diversification. The sector employs thousands of Cameroonians, particularly in rural communities, where craft production provides income for many households while preserving cultural traditions.
Participants at the opening ceremony praised SIARC for creating opportunities for artisans to market their products beyond national borders and contribute to the promotion of the "Made in Cameroon" brand. They noted that the exhibition also encourages innovation by enabling craftsmen to blend indigenous knowledge with modern production methods to meet changing consumer demands.
Running until August 5, SIARC 2026 is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Cameroon and other countries, reinforcing its position as one of Central Africa's leading platforms for promoting handicrafts, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
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