 The opening ceremony of this event, held under the theme "Craftsmanship, an authentic heritage and a locomotive for local development" was graced by the presence of the Secretary of State for Crafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy, Lahcen Essaadi, the Wali of the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region, Mohamed Benribag, elected officials and representatives of professional bodies and civil society.
Organised by the Regional Chamber of Crafts of the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Crafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy - Secretariat of State for Crafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy and in collaboration with the Regional Directorate of Crafts of Béni Mellal-Khénifra, this exhibition, which took up residence at Place Ba Allal in Béni Mellal, aims to promote artisanal products, highlight the important role played by Moroccan master craftsmen in preserving the Kingdom's traditional heritage, and stimulate the local economy by strengthening the local economic fabric.
The exhibition showcases the diversity of artisanal products, such as traditional tapestry, sewing and embroidery, jewellery, wood carving, pottery, leatherwork, traditional saddlery, Zellige beldi, as well as many other specialities that reflect the dexterity and know-how of Moroccan master craftsmen.
It also includes stands exhibiting other famous local products from the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region, such as couscous, saffron, and many more.
In a statement to MAP, Mr. Essaadi highlighted the cooperative potential of the Béni Mellal Khénifra region, known for the quality of its artisanal products, emphasising the remarkable work done by women in cooperatives and their valuable contribution to the local economy.
He stressed the sincere commitment of the Secretariat of State, local authorities and elected bodies to enhance the sector by accelerating the implementation of ongoing projects and carrying out new projects and programmes that will have positive repercussions on artisans, mentioning in this regard the rehabilitation work of the Béni Mellal craft complex, which covers an area of 5000 m² and required an investment of 23 million dirhams.
