From 27 July to 5 August 2026, the National Museum in Yaoundé came alive with craftsmanship, creativity and innovation. Held under the High Patronage of the President of the Republic, H.E. Paul BIYA, and organized by MINPMEESA, SIARC 2026 once again confirmed its position as a major showcase for Cameroonian and African craftsmanship.
The figures speak for themselves: 665 artisans, including 600 national and 65 international artisans;
9 foreign countries represented alongside Cameroon: Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Mali, Djibouti, Benin, Morocco, Congo and the Central African Republic;
More than 20,000 visitors welcomed throughout the ten-day event!
“Between Tradition and Modernity: How Can We Stimulate Craft Innovation?” was more than a theme. It became a concrete reality through exhibitions, practical workshops, conferences, B2B meetings, the Innovation Pavilion and Heritage Days dedicated to Cameroon’s 10 Regions.
GABRIEL TEGNOTO, WINNER OF THE SPECIAL PRIZE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC!
An artisan from the Centre Region, Gabriel TEGNOTO was recognized for the excellence and creativity of his work. His award symbolizes the talent of thousands of Cameroonian artisans who are turning traditional know-how into genuine engines of wealth creation.
SIARC 2026 was also a powerful platform for South-South cooperation and economic diplomacy. The participation of Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire as Guest Countries of Honour, alongside several African delegations, strengthened cooperation around crafts and cultural and creative industries.
Another major achievement: Cameroon has been designated a Guest Country of Honour, alongside Algeria, for the 7th edition of the Ivorian Handicraft Market (MIVA), scheduled to take place in Abidjan in 2027.
SIARC 2026 also laid the foundations for a more modern and competitive craft sector through innovation, digital transformation, design, certification, intellectual property, financing, market access and the promotion of Made in Cameroon products.
The scientific sessions resulted in a number of strong recommendations, including:
strengthening certification and labelling of craft products; modernizing craft villages into training, production and marketing hubs; establishing dedicated financing mechanisms for craft innovation; promoting e-commerce and digital marketing; strengthening intellectual property protection; facilitating intergenerational transmission of traditional skills; improving access to African and international markets; supporting artisans in formalizing and transforming their activities into competitive businesses.These recommendations concern the Government, Decentralized Local Authorities, Technical and Financial Partners, OAPI, ODEPA, traditional authorities and artisans themselves.
SIARC 2026 may have come to an end, but its ambition continues: to make Cameroonian craftsmanship a pillar of inclusive growth, employment, innovation, economic diplomacy and the international visibility of Made in Cameroon.
Congratulations to all artisans, partners and teams who contributed to the success of this 9th edition!
SIARC 2026: Tradition inspires. Innovation transforms. Cameroonian craftsmanship conquers new horizons.