Madam Rabiatu Abubakari, President of GSEA, addressing journalists in Tamale
The Ghana Shea Employers Association (GSEA) is urgently calling on the government to ban the export of raw sheanuts outside Ghana, in order to protect the country’s shea industry.
According to the association, some foreign entities are exporting raw sheanuts to other countries, which does not contribute any economic value to Ghana.
They indicated that processing raw sheanuts locally not only creates jobs but also strengthens local value chains, particularly benefiting women.
“The current model keeps women, who are the backbone of the shea sector, stuck at the lowest end of the value chain. It limits their income, hinders their advancement, and perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality that they have faced for far too long.”
Madam Rabiatu Abubakari, President of GSEA, during a press conference in Tamale, expressed concern that the livelihoods of local collectors, processors, and exporters are threatened by foreign exports of raw sheanuts.
She noted that foreign entities often purchase sheanuts at prices above the normal market rate, making it difficult for local businesswomen to compete, and influencing market dynamics negatively.
She disclosed that when raw sheanuts are exported, Ghana forfeits up to 300% of the potential value that could be added to the economy, along with the associated jobs, industrial growth, and essential tax revenue needed for national development.
“We are not saying they shouldn’t buy sheanuts but rather we want them to purchase the nuts for processing into butter, which can then be exported as a finished product. Our concern arises when they send the raw nuts outside the country,” Madam Abubakari stated.
The GSEA President urged the government to support women through inclusive policies that provide better access to finance, hands-on training, and the technology necessary for them to advance within the value chain.
FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale