The Global Shea Alliance (GSA) has emphasised that the shea tree is a cornerstone of rural livelihoods in Africa, particularly for women, due to its economic value. Beyond being a source of fruit, the shea tree symbolises resilience and life, benefiting millions of communities across 21 African countries.
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Economic Benefits of the Shea Tree
The shea tree has a profound economic impact. For local communities, it provides food, income, education, and economic opportunity. Millions of people, especially in East and West Africa, rely on the shea value chain—from harvesting and processing to marketing—as their primary source of livelihood.
Threats to the Shea Landscape
However, human activities such as commercial charcoal burning, agriculture, and large-scale mining pose significant threats to the shea landscape. Each year, around 80 million trees are cut down across the region. The GSA is calling for collaborative efforts to address this threat and ensure the future of the shea industry.
Initiatives to Protect the Shea Landscape
At the 2025 Shea Day Celebration, Mr. Aaron Adu, Managing Director of the GSA, unveiled the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project (GSLERP), a significant effort to restore the shea landscape. The project aims to mobilise 10 million women across 21 countries to plant and nurture shea trees, ensuring that 10 countries adopt policies that support the industry.
Government Support for the Shea Industry
Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, commended the GSA for its efforts to empower rural communities. He described the celebration as a call to action, aiming to build a sustainable shea industry while tackling climate change. The GSLERP will restore 100,000 hectares of degraded parklands and plant over 1.75 million shea trees by 2027.
Traditional Leaders Support
Naa Pagraninge Saakoe Mornah III, the Paramount Chief of the Sankana Traditional Area, expressed his support for the initiative, recognising the economic potential of shea butter. He emphasised the importance of blending tradition and innovation in promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Collaboration for Sustainability
The GSLERP, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Green Climate Fund, is being implemented by the GSA and the Forestry Commission. The project represents a significant step toward ensuring environmental sustainability, promoting women’s empowerment, and fostering economic development within the shea sector.
Symbolic Shea Tree Planting
The celebration concluded with a symbolic shea tree planting, reinforcing the GSA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and promoting the sustainability of shea parklands.
