THE 5th African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC 2012) will open officially tomorrow at the Eagle Square, Abuja. Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, has however assured of government support for the expo in terms of officialsMinster, who addressed journalists at the AFAC International Press Briefing at the weekend, pledged to draw his colleagues to the occasion, which over the years has not enjoyed desired attention in terms of government's presence and patronage in spite of its regional status.Duke however declined criticisms that the sector does not attract attention of the present administration in line with its clamour for economic diversity through culture and tourism. According to him, the present administration recognises the potentials of the culture sector and also works towards repositioning it as a major employer of labour, especially at the grass root level.He added that the choice of a strategically located Eagle Square as venue for the one week market is an indication of government's interest to promotion the sector.So far, about 13 countries including, Namibia, Senegal, Ghana and The Gambia, Cote D'Ivoire, South Korea, China and Pakistan, are participating alongside 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.The African Arts and Crafts Expo, which was initiated in 2008 during the administration of Prince Adetokunbo Kayode as the Minster for Culture and Tourism, aims at showcasing and promoting African arts and crafts to the global audience.Other objectives of the annual crafts market include sensitization of local investors on the need to invest in the enterprise as well as attract international investment to the continental arts and crafts.Minister Duke noted that going by the objectives of the Expo, it was obvious that if properly supported and developed, it could serve as catalyst to drive the economic diversification efforts of the present administration.' The 5th edition of AFAC therefore is intended to build upon the successes of the previous ones towards coming up with an exhibition that better showcase elements of good products design, finishing, packaging and presentation.'The hosting of the African Arts and Crafts Expo is one way of demonstrating Nigeria's leadership role in the process of realizing the goals of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) as well as the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) by creating vibrant market place in Nigeria that serve the cultural industries of the entire African continent.'The Managing Director/Chief Executive officer, National Council for Arts and Culture, organisers of the event, Mr. M.M. Maidugu, corroborated with the Minister on staging an impressive outing this year. He said the Council has not left any stone unturned in terms of publicity and logistics towards ensuring that wider audience attends this year's market.He also commended the efforts of the Minister towards securing the Eagle Square, which would obviously elevate the status of the event as well as draw more attention and interest to the Expo.The event, which would be declared open by the First Lady, Mrs. Dame Patience Jonathan, will run through June 14.Other side attractions throughout the duration of the expo include food far, cultural performances and states' days.African Arts and Crafts Expo, has no doubt, provided opportunities for artisans from various states of the federation, schools, private groups as well as individual operators in the crafts industry to showcase and market their products.The Expo features the best of African fabrics, traditional arts and crafts, interior decorations, traditional cuisines from across Africa, cultural souvenirs, bronze works and jewelleries.The investment forum, an intellectual segment of the Expo that provides platform for investors to brainstorm on marketing strategies for arts and crafts holds on the second day.
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