Prez. Mahama Urges Local Processing of Shea to Boost Ghana’s Economy
President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to prioritise local processing of shea nuts instead of exporting them in their raw form.
Speaking at the launch of the SheaPark Resource Hub in Wa in the Upper West Region, Wa, he cautioned that the country is forfeiting substantial economic gains by selling the commodity without adding value.
The initiative is expected to process shea into finished products, including cosmetics, ointments and food items, for both the domestic market and export.
President Mahama noted that shea has been an integral part of Ghanaian life for generations, serving both nutritional and cosmetic purposes.
He added that globally, shea butter is highly valued in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries because of its natural qualities.
Despite this global demand, the President expressed concern that women involved in picking and selling shea nuts locally continue to earn very little, even though processed shea products command high prices on the international market.
“Our women sell shea nuts cheaply, but when the same shea is processed into lotions and ointments abroad, the value increases many times,” he said, stressing the need for Ghana to retain the full value chain.
According to him, the SheaPark Resource Hub is structured to ensure that shea nuts are harvested, processed and packaged in Ghana before export. The project is expected to create employment, boost incomes and strengthen local industries.
President Mahama said the initiative fits into his government’s 24-hour economy agenda, explaining that development should be continuous rather than seasonal. He indicated that the hub will operate in shifts across processing, packaging, logistics and distribution, providing round-the-clock jobs, particularly for the youth.
He further noted that the creation of sustainable jobs in northern Ghana would help reduce migration and ease economic hardship in the region.
The President also emphasised that SheaPark is anchored on climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land use, renewable energy and recycling systems, while ensuring environmental protection.
He commended the collaboration among government, traditional authorities, private investors, cooperatives, development partners and the diaspora, describing the partnership as a strong model for sustainable development.
President Mahama urged women and young people in the Upper West Region to take ownership of the facility, acquire skills, innovate and build competitive enterprises. He assured them of government support through improved infrastructure, stable policies, access to finance and a conducive business environment to help local industries thrive.
