An ultramodern shea processing center has been inaugurated at Nwodua in the Kumbungu District of the Northern Region, marking a significant step forward in the commercial production of shea butter.

The facility, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, promises to revolutionize the shea industry in northern Ghana and create substantial employment opportunities for the local youth and women.

The newly established Boribijerisuli Cooperative Processing Centre boasts advanced machinery, including mechanized roasters, grinding mills, bauskars, and prashers. This technological upgrade is expected to enhance the quality and efficiency of shea butter production, moving away from traditional methods to more modern, approved processes.

The center’s capacity to create an estimated 30,000 jobs is particularly significant for the youth and women in the region, offering them dignified and fulfilling employment opportunities.

In addition to its economic benefits, the Boribijerisuli Cooperative Processing Centre also addresses social needs. It includes an Early Childhood Development Centre (Creche) to ensure that children of the women working at the facility have access to early childhood education. This initiative underscores the holistic approach taken by the project, which aims not only to empower women economically but also to support their families and communities.

The inauguration of the processing center is part of the Shared Business Empowerment Project, spearheaded by the Global Shea Alliance—a not-for-profit industry association—in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. Other consortium partners include SOFTtribe, Advans, Women for Change, and Nuts for Growth.

These organizations have collaborated to implement the project across 11 communities within the Kumbungu, Sagnarigu, and Tolon Districts, namely Nwodua, Kpilo, Napagyili, Gbullung, Jakahi Kukuo, Fihini, Kataraga, Chanzegu, Kumbuyili, Tampe Kukuo, and Younduuni.

Enhancing Quality and Profitability

Mr. Aaron Adu, Managing Director of the Global Shea Alliance, emphasized that the facility is designed to create more dignified employment opportunities in the shea industry. He highlighted the shift from traditional to technologically advanced processing methods, which are expected to significantly enhance the quality and profitability of shea butter.

Furthermore, Mr. Adu mentioned that off-takers had been engaged to ensure a ready market for the shea butter produced at the center, providing a stable income for the processors.

Madam Mine Pabari, Country Programme Impact at the Mastercard Foundation, expressed her organization’s commitment to empowering rural young women in the shea value chain. She noted that the facility is specifically designed for community shea pickers and processors, providing them with a safe and supportive environment.

Madam Pabari also highlighted the importance of the Early Childhood Development Centre in supporting the children of working mothers, thereby fostering a nurturing community environment.

Madam Zakaria Fatima, Secretary of the Boribijerisuli Cooperative Shea Processing Centre, expressed her gratitude to the Global Shea Alliance, Mastercard Foundation, and other partners for their support. She was optimistic that the new facility would significantly empower women economically and contribute to reducing domestic violence, often linked to poverty, in the communities.

The inauguration of the Boribijerisuli Cooperative Processing Centre marks a significant milestone in the development of the shea industry in northern Ghana. By providing advanced processing capabilities and supporting the local community, this initiative not only enhances the economic prospects of shea processors but also fosters social well-being.