From 25 to 27 November 2022, the 8th Edition of the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend (CANEX WKDN), or African Creative and Cultural Industries, was held in Abidjan at Sofitel Hôtel Ivoire. There was great enthusiasm by those who attended for various reasons.
About a hundred customised stands were a delight to behold, thanks to the beauty and diversity of products displayed. This pan-African exhibition, which supports the artistic creations of the black continent in all its different aspects, was attended by participants from many countries. From the opening ceremony presided by the Prime Minister, Patrick Achi, visitors rushed around fifty stands to discover the works of their sisters and brothers who were showcasing their talent.
On the third and last day of this creative and cultural event, (27 November 2022: editor’s note), the items proposed were enhanced by the views of participants. Africans, Americans, Europeans, and Asians were on a journey of discovery of rare, normally difficult to find, objects and talent. Stéphanie Kouassi, manager of the Olivia Perez Stand (Côte d’Ivoire), explained that she was representing her structure to open up other areas of action. She said that participating in this creative event was a chance for them to display their know-how, which above all, enabled them to promote Ivorian fashion. It was a window of opportunity for them to meet many people who could be useful to them in future, and she hoped to enrich the client address book of her fashion house.
For Shariff, of Franco-Lebanese origin, and living in Côte d’Ivoire, his presence was informed by his status as a guide for Jamaican artistes like Julian Marley, Bob Marley’s son, who was invited for a concert at CANEX. He said it was the second time Julian Marley was performing in Côte d’Ivoire, where he is well-known. He added that the presence of Julian Marley, although not part of a concert organised by a private touring agent, was a boost to the magnitude of the event, when one is aware that he is the son of the reggae legend. Apart from this guide, the presence of managers of structures, who were here to promote their businesses, was observed.
Among them, was Camille Bidault, Programming Manger, Impact and Development for Winwin Afrique. This young lady said she was attending CANEX WKND to broaden the scope of her company. She added that they had been in Côte d’Ivoire for several years, and had implemented the Agora Programme, with multifunctional sports and cultural facilities, including a pilot project in Koumassi that was operating smoothly. Winwin Afrique was currently in the process of building 10 more, with 4 in Abidjan, and 6 in the provinces. The facilities provide infrastructure that are more accessible to inhabitants in the provinces, with appropriate tariffs. Camille Bidault said they intended to extend their network through the opportunities offered by platforms such as CANEX WKND.