Faso Dan Fani: Gaoua Campaign Highlights Local Thread Use.

Gaoua: The Association Educate to Develop - Awaken Consciousness (EDEC-Burkina/Africa) organized an awareness campaign in Gaoua on November 29 and 30, 2024, focusing on promoting the use of local thread to produce Faso Dan Fani, the traditional fabric of Burkina Faso. The campaign aimed to reduce reliance on imported threads and loincloths, thereby supporting local production and economic sovereignty.According to Burkina Information Agency, the opening ceremony of the campaign was presided over by Robert Zoungrana, Secretary General of the South-West region, and was attended by local authorities, weavers, and traders. Zoungrana emphasized the significance of bolstering local production, especially in the textile sector, to enhance Burkina Faso's economic independence. He noted that using local thread is crucial for supporting the national economy and preserving cultural identity.Abdoulaye Koanda, president of EDEC-Burkina/Africa, highlighted the capabilities of the FILSAH factory, which specializes in cot ton thread production, to fulfill the local market's needs. He advocated for prioritizing local yarn to reduce imports and invigorate the national economy. Koanda stated that the presence of EDEC in Gaoua was to share experiences and encourage the preference for local thread over foreign alternatives.Mariam Poda, president of the South West Weavers' Union, voiced the artisans' concerns regarding thread quality and availability. She urged FILSAH to enhance thread quality, introduce dying processes, and ensure better distribution to aid weavers in their craft.