Shea nuts
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has described the SheaPark Resource Hub of Hope as a long-term economic intervention aimed at creating jobs, strengthening local industries and enhancing value addition within the country’s agricultural sector.
The initiative, launched in the Upper West Region recently, is expected to unlock the economic potential of the shea industry while improving livelihoods across local communities.
Addressing stakeholders at the launch, Mr. Bagbin said the project forms part of efforts to reposition the region as a key contributor to the nation’s agricultural and industrial growth.
He explained that the SheaPark initiative is designed to stimulate sustainable economic activity by supporting production, processing and marketing within the shea value chain.
According to him, the project will also complement other agricultural and livestock ventures in the region to ensure diversified economic growth.
Mr. Bagbin noted that the project was developed over a 17-month period, emphasising that the time invested in planning was necessary to ensure a sustainable and results-oriented intervention.
He said the vision behind the initiative was conceived in August 2024 after he was conferred with the traditional title of Dakagli Naa by the Wa Traditional Council, led by Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV.
The Speaker indicated that the honour deepened his commitment to championing a comprehensive socio-economic development blueprint for the Upper West Region, with the shea sector serving as a central pillar for transformation.
He acknowledged the collaboration between the government and private sector partners in bringing the project to fruition.
Mr. Bagbin highlighted the presence of the President at the launch as a demonstration of national support and commended the Ghana-South Africa Business Chamber for expressing readiness to invest in the initiative.
According to him, the SheaPark Resource Hub aligns with the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy, which seeks to promote continuous production and economic activity.
He said the facility is expected to create employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people, while encouraging entrepreneurship and industrial development.
Mr. Bagbin urged communities and stakeholders to take ownership of the project and actively participate in its implementation.
He stressed that the success and sustainability of the initiative would depend on collective responsibility and consistent support from development partners, investors and traditional authorities.
By Ernest Kofi Adu