SMEs ministry announces awards to promote local crafts, interior design.

The initiative is an international event organised within the framework of the Programme for the Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries, PROPICC. 

The event is scheduled to run from June 19 to 21, 2025. It will be held at the Yaounde Multipurpose Sports Complex and the Hilton Hotel in Yaounde. 

The announcement was made by SMEs ministry boss, Achille Bassilekin III. He was speaking during a press conference May 5.

The presser marked the launch of the first edition of the Sky Awards, which seeks to promote and showcase the professions of creation and design, including interior architecture, handicrafts, design, and art. 

It will be held under the theme: "Handicrafts and Interior Architecture: A Timeless Alliance". 

In his address during the press briefing, Minister Bassilekin III reaffirmed the strategic role of crafts and design in Cameroon's economic development. 

According to the minister, the sector is full of considerable resources to be developed. He said it offers real opportunities to enable local artisans to take a step forward and move to a higher level, which will enable them to fully live off their talent and creativity. 

The minister also hailed the holding of the event as an opportunity for international engagement.

According to information made public by MINPMEESA, PROPICC is an initiative of the Mutodiosa Vocational Institute of Arts and Design, MIAD, in collaboration with the African Confederation of Interior Architects, AFCID. 

The driving force behind the awards is Léonie Bwemba, a certified interior architect, universal and industrial designer. 

She is the promoter of MIAD and Founding President of AFCID. Léonie Bwemba also doubles as General Delegate of the Sky Awards.

The event boasts the distinguished patronage of Minister Achille Bassilekin III, and former President of the Republic of Ecuador and AFCID patron, H.E Dr Rosalia Arteaga. 

A plethora of renowned local and international artists are expected to grace the event, including Etienne Mbappé, Ben Decca, Kareyce Fotso, Stanley Enow, Magasco, Sandrine Nnanga, Tenor, Aga'a, Fabregas from DR Congo, and many others. 

Numerous personalities will also be in attendance, including international basketball star, Simon Obi from Germany and football icon, Nicolas Nkoulou.

The organisers have encouraged local artisans to register to take part in the event as numerous prizes will be won, including an all-expenses-paid trip to Turkey for advanced training in finishing techniques for their creations.