MIATO 2025: A brilliant finale!

The fourth edition of the Marché International de l'Artisanat du Togo (MIATO), which took place in Lomé from April 23 to May 4, 2025, came to a resounding close. For eleven days, the Centre Togolais des Expositions et Foires (CETEF) was transformed into a crossroads of creativity, culture and African resilience.

Bringing together more than 800 exhibitors from West and Central Africa and the Maghreb, this biennial event brought together craftsmen, traders and art lovers around the central theme: "Protecting artistic works: issues and challenges. A strong theme in the context of enhancing and securing African cultural heritage.

Guest of honor Burkina Faso shone throughout the event, as did the Plateaux region, torchbearer of Togolese know-how. The diversity and quality of the products on display reinforced this visibility.

Despite an unexpected fire in the middle of the show, the closing ceremony was a resounding success, with fashion shows, artistic performances and discussions testifying to the unity and strength of the African craft sector.

Kayi Mivedor-Sambiani, Minister of Commerce, Handicrafts and Local Consumption, expressed her admiration:
"Faced with the unexpected, you showed remarkable solidarity. The event lived up to its promise thanks to your determination." She also reiterated the authorities' commitment to making MIATO a lever for the continental promotion of crafts.

For Zakaria Gyengane, Director of Cabinet at the Burkina Faso Ministry of Industry and Crafts, this year's event has a strong diplomatic dimension:
"Being the guest country of honor symbolizes the unity and deep friendship between our nations. Our cooperation goes far beyond trade.

Awards of excellence crowned the efforts of the most innovative participants, with two special distinctions awarded by President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé in person, demonstrating his commitment to supporting this strategic sector.

So MIATO draws to a close on a note of hope and success. We look forward to the fifth edition in 2027, with the promise of new discoveries and even greater inspiration.