The government is intensifying its efforts to revolutionise the shea industry through significant investments in research and development, particularly in the Northern Region.
This commitment was highlighted at the World Shea Expo 2024, held in Tamale, under the theme “Nurturing Growth, Empowering Communities.”
Representing Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, Alhaji Mohammed Hardi Tufeiru, emphasised the government’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of the shea sector.
He revealed that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), through its research arm, the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG), has made groundbreaking progress in reducing the shea tree’s gestation period from over 30 years to just 3-5 years.
“The long juvenile phase of 15 to 25 years has been the main challenge in integrating the shea crop into farming systems in the Guinea Savannah belt.”
“Thanks to years of research by COCOBOD through CRIG, this challenge has been significantly mitigated, paving the way for greater investment and expansion in the shea industry,” Alhaji Tufeiru noted.
This scientific breakthrough is expected to increase the profitability of shea cultivation, making it a more attractive venture for farmers in the northern regions. The government’s focus is now on promoting the domestication of shea to unlock its full economic potential, similar to how cocoa has transformed the southern regions of Ghana.
The Expo, organised by Savannah Golden Tree Limited, Global Shea Alliance, and the Northern Regional Coordinating Council, showcased the potential of the shea industry not only in job creation and poverty alleviation but also in environmental conservation.
Chief Adams Tampuri, Executive Director of World Shea Expo 2024, underscored the importance of shea trees in combating desertification and preserving biodiversity.
He praised the organisers of the Expo, describing it as a platform for stakeholders to network, learn, and form partnerships that will drive growth in the sector.
“The shea industry supports countless families and contributes significantly to the national GDP. By promoting sustainable practices, we enhance productivity and ensure the long-term health of our environment,” Chief Tampuri said.
Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Shani Alhassan Shaibu, also commended the initiative, urging all stakeholders to leverage their expertise to build a bright future for the shea industry and the region.
The event brought together key collaborators, including the Tree Crops Development Authority, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), and EXIM Bank, among others. Their collective expertise and resources are expected to propel the shea industry to new heights, making Ghanaian shea products globally recognised for their quality and sustainability.
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