Grand-Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire – Fritzwa International, a Ghana-based non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering prison inmates and other vulnerable individuals, made a significant impact at the 7th edition of the Salon International de l’Artisanat de Bassam (SIAB) held from July 25 to August 4, 2024. The NGO, which focuses on vocational training in areas such as bead craft, hat making, and footwear production, was among the select exhibitors at the prestigious cultural event.

At the Maison du Patrimoine Culturel in Grand-Bassam, Fritzwa International presented a diverse array of handmade products, meticulously crafted by their trainees. The organization’s participation in the event was an opportunity to showcase the creative talents of their beneficiaries and to engage with a wider audience and potential buyers.

“We believe that vocational training is a powerful tool for rehabilitation and reintegration,” said Naana Djan, Executive Director for Fritzwa International. “Participating in SIAB has allowed us to bring the work of these skilled artisans to an international stage, highlighting their journey from vulnerability to empowerment.”

SIAB Grand-Bassam, known for its focus on sustainable tourism development through artisanal crafts, provided Fritzwa International with an ideal venue to demonstrate the importance of vocational education for marginalized groups. The event’s theme, “Artisanal crafts as a factor for sustainable tourism development,” resonated deeply with the organization’s mission to create lasting change through skill development.

Throughout the event, visitors to the Fritzwa International stand were impressed by the quality and creativity of the products on display. The beadwork, hats, and footwear, all crafted by prison inmates and other vulnerable individuals in Ghana, were met with enthusiastic interest, leading to both sales and meaningful conversations about the importance of supporting such initiatives.

The SIAB event, which attracts artisans and exhibitors from across the African continent, was an invaluable opportunity for Fritzwa International to expand its reach and impact. By participating in this gathering of cultural and creative talents, the NGO reinforced its commitment to using vocational training as a means of transforming lives and communities.