Goulmou: The Secretary General of the Goulmou region, Siaka Ouattara, launched a regional fair dedicated to Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) under the auspices of the Goulmou Regional Directorate of Water and Forests. The event was attended by producers, processors, forestry stakeholders, and guests from various backgrounds.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the regional directorate of Water and Forests of Goulmou organized the fair on NTFPs, a sector considered strategic for food security, nutrition, and economic development of local communities. Siaka Ouattara emphasized that NTFPs, though often overlooked, are essential sources of income, food, and medicine for many rural populations. He highlighted products like shea and nere, along with other resources such as medicinal plants, mushrooms, and essential oils.

Ouattara noted that developing these products is a significant challenge that requires responsible harvesting practices and efforts to domesticate wild species to prevent overexploitation. He encouraged participants to use the fair as "an opportunity for exchanges and discoveries" around the national theme: 'Contribution of Non-Timber Forest Products to the health and nutritional security of populations.'

Achille Attiou, the provincial director of Water and Forests of Komondjari, representing the regional director, welcomed exhibitors and visitors. He emphasized that NTFPs, derived from leaves, flowers, fruits, bark, roots, sap, gum, resin, honey, and insects, are a natural and cultural heritage that needs preservation. Attiou stated that the fair aims to create a market for producers, support innovations, promote good practices, and raise awareness of the economic and ecological importance of these natural resources.

The organizers invited visitors to discover, exchange, taste, and support local producers and artisans while reaffirming the importance of sustainable forest management. The ceremony concluded with satisfaction and hope, with aspirations that this edition will strengthen the economic resilience of communities and preserve the region's forest cover.