The kickoff of the National Micro-Entrepreneurship Activity Fair was given this Friday at the Mohamed Ben Ahmed Conference Center in Oran by the Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-Enterprises, Noureddine Ouadah. This second edition brings together more than 200 exhibitors from various provinces and aims to highlight activities financed by microcredit, encourage entrepreneurial spirit, and promote local production in several sectors.
From February 12 to 14, the fair also offers a program of workshops, conferences, and activities aimed at project holders and the general public. During the opening ceremony, the minister expressed his pride in seeing this second edition held in Oran, which he described as a “city of challenges” and which actively participates in major national projects such as Gara Djebilet. “This industrial and dynamic city contributes to important achievements for our nation, which has always distinguished itself through its historical successes,” he declared.
The minister then recalled the importance of microcredit as both an economic and social tool, emphasizing the state’s desire to modernize this system. “Microcredit is today an economic and social tool, and we continue to modernize it to support our artisans and entrepreneurs, while preserving our cultural heritage and integrating project holders into the national economy,” he explained.
“Digitization and e-commerce are priority axes that we will continue to develop in 2026, to bring all citizens closer together, from North to South and East to West, and to enable our diaspora to access local products through technologies and social networks,” added Mr. Ouadah.
He also addressed the importance of the environment and sustainable development. “We are launching programs to raise awareness among young people and mobilize entrepreneurs around preserving our environment. The blue economy, particularly thanks to our coastline of over 1,600 km, and food industries will be major axes to contribute to national food security,” he specified.
For her part, Ms. Souad Ben Djamil, Director General of the National Microcredit Management Agency (ANGEM), presented the initiatives put in place to support beneficiaries. She announced the launch of ANGEM Market, a secure digital platform that allows artisans and project holders to market their products safely and sustainably. “This platform offers a controlled space where consumers can access quality products while ensuring their safety,” she emphasized.
The director also highlighted the involvement of housewives, farmers, maritime fishing sector actors, as well as artisans and entrepreneurs in the local economy. She finally mentioned the launch of an Algerian cuisine contest, particularly honoring the richness of Oranese gastronomy ahead of the month of Ramadan.
Under the slogan: “Microcredit… an effective mechanism to strengthen local production and support the national economy,” this event positions itself as a space for promoting local innovation, exchanging experiences, and enhancing opportunities for youth, women, and project holders across the country.