Ouagadougou: The Creativity Pavilion and the Rainbow Pavilion at the SIAO 2024 have been officially renamed, with the Creativity Pavilion now called the 'Thomas Sankara Creativity Pavilion' and the Rainbow Pavilion designated as the 'Pavilion le Faso'. The renaming ceremony was conducted by Bassolma Bazié, the Minister in charge of Social Protection, alongside Serge Poda, the Minister in charge of Crafts.According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Bazié stated that the renaming of the Thomas Sankara Creativity Pavilion was a tribute to Captain Thomas Sankara's efforts in advancing African craftsmanship. The pavilion serves as an exhibition space for showcasing innovative and creative African crafts, highlighting the continent's cultural and artistic heritage. The Minister emphasized that the new name reflects the visionary efforts of previous generations who strived for economic sovereignty through crafts.The Pavilion le Faso, as explained by Minister Bazié, symbolizes the homeland and embodies the principles of freedom and dignity. The renaming of both pavilions represents a paradigm shift embraced by the Burkinabe people, who are committed to developing their own model of progress and growth.During the ceremony, the ministers toured the Thomas Sankara Creativity Pavilion, which features works competing in the 17th edition of the SIAO. Paulin Kaboré, president of the Reward and Creativity Commission and the Chamber of Trades of the Center, noted that the pavilion hosts 52 entries, 16 of which are from Burkinabe artisans. The remaining entries come from artisans across Mali, Niger, Togo, Cameroon, Algeria, and Madagascar.The theme for this year's competition is centered on 'African crafts, youth entrepreneurship and empowerment,' reflecting the focus on nurturing young talent and promoting entrepreneurship within the crafts sector, as detailed by Mr. Kaboré.