Ouagadougou: The Agency for the Promotion of Community Shareholding (APEC) organized a public conference in Poura to promote community engagement in the development mechanism through community shareholding. The event, chaired by Momini Sawadogo, president of the special delegation, gathered various socio-professional stakeholders at the town hall conference room.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the conference featured presentations by Sanou Manassira Traor, Head of the Promotion and Training Department at APEC, and Mathias Sawadogo, Head of the Subscription Support Department. The initiative aimed to strengthen APEC’s accountability and commitment to involving the community in its development projects, ensuring that all segments of society are informed about the progress and achievements of initial investments.

The APEC team highlighted ongoing projects, including the Burkinabe tomato company (SOBETO) in Bobo-Dioulasso, known for producing the A’dia brand of tomato. Additionally, they discussed the Tenkodogo factory, which is currently under construction, and an industrial gold mine located in Bielmra, Gaoua.

Spokespeople noted that the funds invested by subscribers have successfully facilitated business creation and job opportunities for young people. They reported that the factory in Bobo Dioulasso alone has generated over 300 jobs, excluding indirect employment, and assured shareholders of forthcoming returns on their investments.

At the conference’s conclusion, participants expressed satisfaction with the insights shared. The Party of Development and Solidarity (PDS) promptly increased its share capital, and numerous attendees pledged their support by subscribing to the initiative.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Sawadogo emphasized the collective responsibility of nation-building, urging for concrete actions over rhetoric. Local authorities praised the substantial public turnout and the enthusiasm reflected in the subscription levels.