By Brandon Moss AgriFocus Africa July 31, 2025
Accra—In a bold move to revive its shea industry, Ghana’s Ministry of Agriculture has announced a $4.6 million investment to modernize processing facilities and strengthen women-led cooperatives in Northern Ghana. The initiative, co-funded by the African Development Bank, targets traceability, quality control, and export competitiveness.
Shea exports have declined by 18% over the past three years due to outdated equipment and fragmented supply chains. The new funding will upgrade processing centers in Tamale and Bolgatanga, introduce blockchain-based traceability systems, and train over 1,200 women in value addition.
“This is more than an economic boost—it’s a gender equity win,” said Minister Kwaku Owusu. The program is expected to create 3,000 jobs and increase export revenues by 40% within two years, with Europe and East Asia as key target markets.
The initiative also aligns with Ghana’s Green Industrialization Strategy, positioning shea as a flagship product for sustainable agro-processing.
