Ouahigouya: A modern factory dedicated to preserving agricultural products is currently under construction in Ouahigouya. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts, Gnaniodem Serge Poda, laid the foundation stone for the Agricultural Products Marketing and Processing Company (SOCOTRA) on Friday, as observed by AIB.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Serge Poda was joined by the Secretary General of the Yaadga region, Kouilga Albert Zongo, representing the governor, along with top officials from Burkinabe employers and local residents. The Prefect and President of the Special Delegation of the Ouahigouya Municipality, Amos Lucien Lankoand©, expressed his approval of the factory's construction in his city. He highlighted that market gardening is a crucial source of livelihood and resilience for Ouahigouya's population, describing the factory as a "beacon of hope."

In his speech, Minister Poda emphasized the significance of establishing this infrastructure in the Yaadga region's capital. The factory, deeply connected to vegetable production, aims to enhance the processing, preservation, and marketing of crops. He noted that the factory's construction aligns with President Ibrahim Traor©'s vision for Burkina Faso's industrial sovereignty, aiming to promote endogenous development and reduce import dependency. Poda commended the chamber of commerce, industry, and shareholders for initiating the factory project.

According to the Director General of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Seydou Tou, SOCOTRA's commissioning will add value to off-season farming in Yaadga. He affirmed the Burkina Faso Chamber of Commerce and Industry's readiness to support government initiatives as needed.

The factory, with a total investment of 3.5 billion, will occupy a 3-hectare site and is expected to be completed in 8 months, creating over 1400 direct and indirect jobs.