The Congolese craft market, known as “Soko Soko Bazar”, took place at the Maison de France in Kinshasa from November 25 to 26. This initiative, set up by the Union of French People Abroad, offers Congolese artisans, particularly those working in the field of recycling, an opportunity to present their products and meet potential buyers.
This edition brought together around 70 artisans who exhibited clothes, handbags, baskets, trays, masks, jewelry, decorative objects and many other creations. The materials used vary from wood to ceramic, ivory, fabric, fiber, beads, silver, iron and even malachite.
What makes these works even more special is their recycled nature. A mirror with a frame made of champagne corks, a multi-colored giraffe made from wire and coffee capsules, dolls and black dancers made with wire, wood and fabric, but also a snowman snow made from plastic cups, the work of patients from the Telema center in Kintambo who suffer from mental illnesses. There are also placemats made from banana corks or fibers, as well as tables made from baobab fibers.
In addition to crafts, the market also offers a variety of food items such as herbs for infusions, juices, coffee, chocolate and chia seeds.
The exhibitors mainly come from Kinshasa, but some also come from other provinces, such as North Kivu. The objective of this market is to discover and support Congolese artisans by encouraging visitors, both foreign and Congolese, to buy their products. There is a real talent pool to explore and support.
Raphael Wanzio, one of the organizers of the event, underlines: “We want, through this activity, to bring foreigners and especially the Congolese to discover and support their artisans by purchasing their products. There is a lot of talent.”
The closing of this edition of the Congolese craft market “Soko Soko Bazar” is scheduled for this Sunday at 6 p.m. This event highlights the unique creations and talent of Congolese artisans, while providing an opportunity for cultural exchange and economic development.