In Thionck Essyl, in the Bignona department, artisans from the Blouf region took advantage of the closing of a training course to sound the alarm about the obstacles hindering their sector. Gathered around their leaders, they denounced the shortage of raw materials, their dependence on importers, and the lack of adequate financing. These difficulties threaten the survival of their businesses.

For Ibrahima Diallo, a leader of the Blouf artisans and head of the local cooperative, the stakes are high: “We were born here, we grew up here, we can live here. But without structured support, young people will be forced to leave.” The artisans emphasize the urgent need to mobilize youth and women through training and formalization programs, in order to retain talent in the communities and prevent the exodus abroad. They reiterate that crafts constitute an economic and social pillar, capable of creating sustainable jobs and strengthening community cohesion.

The meeting was marked by the presence of Gorgui Diop, president of the Dakar Chamber of Trades and first vice-president of the National Union of Chambers of Trades. In his address, he supported local grievances, emphasizing the central role of training and formalization. "Chambers of trades have missions of guidance, training, and financing. The central government has an obligation to provide jobs, but you can't provide a job without training," he stated. For him, peace and stability in Casamance depend on young people having access to skills and professional opportunities.

The artisans of Blouf are directly appealing to the authorities for financial and technical support. They are requesting the implementation of regular training programs, easier access to credit, and improved organization within the chambers of trades. Their objective is clear: to transform their expertise into genuine drivers of local and national development. This urgent appeal reflects the artisans' desire to remain and work in their communities, as well as their determination to see the State fully play its role in promoting craftsmanship, a key engine of growth and stability for the region.