On Sunday, August 31, 2025, the curtain came down on the National Handicrafts Fair of Benin (SNAB) after ten days of exhibitions, panels, and training sessions, held on the Esplanade of the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou. The event was placed under the patronage of Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata, who praised it as a “successful edition” before artisans from Benin and several guest countries.
The closing ceremony was launched by Clétus Nestor Guézo, Director General of the Handicrafts Development Fund (FDA), who highlighted a new dynamic in supporting and promoting artisanal enterprises. He saluted the “brave artisans” from Benin and guest countries (Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, Ghana, Morocco) for the quality of their work, promising continued technical assistance to enhance craftsmanship and communication.
The final afternoon featured a vibrant fashion show in indigo and Kanvo fabrics, showcasing contemporary designs by Beninese stylists, followed by jury deliberations led by artist Charly d’Almeida and the awarding of trophies and certificates to winners in four categories: creativity, quality, innovation, and alignment with the theme of labeling and certification.
A call for originality
Conrad Gbaguidi, President of the Economic and Social Council (CES), delivered an improvised speech, urging artisans to aim for originality and excellence. He praised Vice President Talata as a “great ambassador” for handicrafts and emphasized the synergy between crafts, agriculture, and trade as key drivers of development.
Minister of SMEs Modeste Kérékou lauded the fair as a “true hub for economic and professional exchanges” and paid tribute to Morocco, the guest of honor. He promised continued government support “under the leadership of President Patrice Talon.”
Vice President’s message
In her closing remarks, Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata praised the quality of the exhibitions, the training sessions, and the international exchanges. She stressed the central role of artisans:
“I often tell artisans that if they let us down, we are lost. Who can feel confident if they are poorly dressed? When we are well dressed, we all suddenly become models.”
She also highlighted key themes of SNAB 2025, including labeling, certification, customs and tax regulations for exports, and digitalization. She pledged strong, concrete actions for professionalization, financing access, training, and modernization of production tools.
The Vice President officially declared the 19th edition of the SNAB closed, urging artisans to take pride in their craft:
“Long live handicrafts in the service of economic development, long live Beninese and African artisanship.”
The event closed on a symbolic note with indigo fashion and Kanvo fabric representing Beninese identity and elegance, and sculptures and root-based furniture emphasizing durability and heritage. Certificates of participation were awarded to several exhibitors.