Ghana’s Vice-President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has called for a significant shift from exporting raw shea to developing value-added shea products. This strategic pivot aims to help Ghana fully capitalise on increasing global demand for shea, generating more revenue and jobs domestically.
Speaking at the SHEA 2026 conference, Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang emphasised industrialisation as a key driver for sustainable economic growth. The conference gathered participants from 21 African countries, reflecting over 15 years of collaboration in the shea industry. This focus aligns with the government's broader 'Reset Agenda' to revitalise key economic sectors and enhance local processing capabilities.
This initiative builds on efforts since the Global Shea Alliance's inauguration in 2011, under then-President John Dramani Mahama. The drive to add value to raw materials fits into Ghana's larger economic narrative of moving beyond commodity exports. Data indicates that countries exporting finished goods often capture more economic benefit than those exporting raw materials. This strategy seeks to increase Ghana's stake in the lucrative global shea market, currently dominated by unprocessed exports.
Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang stated, “As global demand for shea continues to rise, Ghana must be deliberate in capturing greater value through processing, innovation, and expanded market access.” This statement underscores the urgent need for policy and industry alignment to achieve these goals. She also mentioned the '24-hour economy' policy, which is expected to boost productivity and strengthen value chains in the shea sector. This policy would allow for continuous production, increasing output and efficiency.
The push for value addition carries several implications for Ghana's economy and society. Increased processing within Ghana will create more local jobs, particularly for women who form the backbone of the shea value chain across the savannah ecological zones. It will also foster economic diversification and potentially attract further investment into agribusiness. Policymakers will now need to focus on implementing policies that protect shea parklands, improve soil fertility, and offer enhanced support to farmers to ensure sustainable growth. The success of these efforts will be crucial for Ghana's economic transformation and broader African development.
Deliberations at SHEA 2026 are expected to provide practical solutions and strengthen partnerships. These outcomes are vital for driving the next phase of growth in the shea industry. The expansion of local processing facilities and enhanced market access will signify Ghana's commitment to industrialisation. This shift could set a precedent for other agricultural commodities, contributing significantly to Ghana's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).