The fifth edition of the Sidi Kacem Regional Handicrafts Fair ended on Wednesday, following the participation of more than 40 exhibitors from different regions of the Kingdom.

Organised by the Chamber of Handicrafts of Kenitra, Sidi Kacem and Sidi Slimane, in partnership with the Maison de l'Artisan and the regional delegation of handicrafts of Kenitra, the fair exhibited products of carpentry, leather goods, aromatic and medicinal plants, jewellery, wood and stone engraving, plaster art and ironwork.

Spanning an area of approximately 1,200 m2, this exhibition was part of the sector's development strategy intended to promote the marketing of artisanal products.

The event, which took place from 26 to 31 December 2014 under the aegis of the Ministry of Handicrafts and Social and Solidarity Economy, saw the participation of artisans from the Gharb-Chrarda-Bni-Hssen region and the cities of Smara, Safi, Ouezzane, Demnate, Taroudant, Khemisset, Midelt and Essaouira.

Through the organisation of this fair, whose number of visitors reached 30,000 people, the organisers aimed to promote the handicrafts sector in the region by raising awareness of local products, helping artisans to better market their products and facilitating the exchange of their experiences.

This event was marked by a female participation rate of 24% and an 11% participation of artisans from rural areas.

Parallel to the fair, other activities were organised, notably a training session for the benefit of artisans in the province of Sidi Kacem and communication and awareness meetings on the financing possibilities offered in the sector.