As announced a few days ago, the 12th edition of the Adjafi fair for young entrepreneurs, which actually got underway on August 22 on the playground of the Agoè-Nyivé high school, was officially opened this Monday, August 26, 2024, in the presence of the new president of the CCIT, Dr José Kwassi Symenouh, the representative of the Minister of Commerce, Mr Koffi Vinyo Mensah, and administrative and religious figures.
This official ceremony marks the start of a major event that will run until September 8.
Under the theme: "ZLECAF to stimulate the marketing of our processed products and perpetuate the gains made", this edition focuses on the opportunities offered by the African continental free trade zone for Togolese entrepreneurs.
Organized by Agence Maxcom, promoter of the young entrepreneurs' fair, this year's event features a varied program, including exhibitions, training and networking sessions, designed to enhance participants' skills and promote exchanges of experience. Participation is impressive, with 211 exhibitors, including a strong representation of young people, who hold 80% of the stands.
"This is a valuable opportunity to connect businesses to communes, and I would like to express my gratitude to the city council for its technical and financial support," said developer Minasseh.
"We have planned three concerts on Fridays and Sundays, and a fashion show on the day dedicated to Fashion Day. The aim is to offer a rich and diverse experience to all visitors," concluded the promoter in his launch speech.
The diversity of the sectors represented is also remarkable: 20% of the companies present are from the craft industry, 32% from distribution, 9% from the cosmetics sector, 13% from services, 1% from renewable energies, and 6% from catering.
An international fair
In addition, this edition welcomes foreign exhibitors from the sub-region, reinforcing the role of the Adjafi fair in Togo's economic development.
The Adjafi Fair is supported by the Togolese authorities through the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Togo (CCIT), the Ministry of Trade and Promotion of the Private Sector and the Ministry of Grassroots Development, which promote and encourage youth entrepreneurship. It has established itself as an engine of growth for the Togolese economy, offering young entrepreneurs a platform to make themselves known, forge partnerships and access new markets.
"It's the biggest annual gathering of very small and small businesses, and we warmly welcome this initiative, which boosts young people's knowledge", said Koffi Vinyo Mensah, representing the Minister of Commerce at the official opening.