Ouagadougou:Yempabou Tankoano, the creator of the "Findi" weaving machine, has been awarded five prizes at the conclusion of the 8th Ouagadougou International Handicrafts Fair (SIAO).

According to Burkina Information Agency, Tankoano received accolades including the informal sector prize, the first prize of ONAB, the Thomas Sankara prize, the SIAO prize of the creativity pavilion, and the OABI prize.

The "Findi" machine is a multifunctional device aimed at enhancing the efficiency of artisanal weaving, particularly in producing the traditional Faso Dan Fani loincloth. It features a hybrid engine that can be powered by solar energy or electricity and boasts a production capability of approximately 20 meters of fabric per day, equivalent to nearly ten loincloths. Additionally, it can create fabrics up to 1.40 meters wide.

Tankoano emphasized that the innovation is the culmination of two years of research and collaboration with his colleagues, expressing hope for further support from authorities to expand the reach of the "Findi" machine.