The Inezgane-Aït Melloul Handicraft Fair opened on Monday in the city of Dcheira El Jihadia, with the participation of nearly 60 exhibitors.
The opening ceremony of this event, held under the theme "Our traditions, our arts, our pride", was enhanced by the presence of the Secretary of State in charge of Handicrafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy, Lahcen Essaadi, the Wali of the Souss-Massa region, Governor of the Agadir Ida-Outanane prefecture, Said Amzazi, the Governor of the Inezgane Aït Melloul prefecture, Ismail Aboulhokouk, the President of the Souss-Massa Regional Council, Karim Achengli, elected officials and representatives of professional bodies and civil society.
As part of the implementation of the partnership agreement between the Wilaya of the Souss-Massa region, the Chamber of Handicrafts of the Souss-Massa region, and the Regional Directorate of Handicrafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy, this exhibition, which will continue until the 19th of this month, highlights the diversity of handicraft products, as well as other specialities reflecting the dexterity and know-how of master artisans.
In a statement to the MAP, Mr Essaadi highlighted the importance of this type of event which contributes to the valorisation and promotion of Moroccan handicrafts, expressing the continuous mobilisation of all stakeholders in favour of strengthening the influence and showcasing of this sector.
This event, which coincides with the celebration of the Amazigh New Year 2975, is intended to be a showcase for the promotion of local products from artisans and cooperatives and an opportunity to support the local economic dynamic.
This event hosts stands showcasing various handicraft products, as well as local products exhibited as part of efforts aimed at supporting the social and solidarity economy hub.
This Fair also aims to valorise the role of human capital at the local level and to give local products their authentic traditional character, by expanding their marketing base and thereby giving an accelerator to the local economy.
Earlier in the day, Mr Essaadi and the delegation accompanying him visited the Specialised Institute of Traditional Arts in Inzegane, which currently hosts more than 300 learners.
Subsequently, a partnership agreement was signed for the establishment of a handicraft village in Inzegane for a total cost of 12 million dirhams.
