The shea tree stands not only as a vital economic resource but also as a symbol of resilience for millions across Africa, according to the Global Shea Alliance (GSA).
Celebrating this critical role, the GSA marked Shea Day 2025 in Sankana, Nadowli/Kaleo District, alongside the launch of the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project (GSLERP), underscoring the shea sector’s contribution to livelihoods, gender empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
Mr. Aaron Adu, Managing Director of the GSA, highlighted how the shea value chain—from harvesting to processing and marketing—supports millions of people, particularly women, across 21 African countries. “The shea tree is much more than fruit; it’s a lifeline that provides food, income, and education for rural communities,” he stated.
However, Mr. Adu also drew attention to urgent threats facing shea landscapes, including commercial charcoal burning, expanding agriculture, and large-scale mining, which contribute to the alarming loss of approximately 80 million shea trees annually. The GSA is therefore mobilizing efforts to engage 10 million women to plant and nurture shea trees and is advocating for policy frameworks across ten countries to safeguard the industry’s future.
The Ghanaian government, represented by Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, reiterated its commitment to climate action through GSLERP. The project aims to restore 100,000 hectares of degraded parklands, plant nearly 2.15 million seedlings, and support sustainable livelihoods for women, youth, and smallholder farmers. “This initiative exemplifies nature-based solutions for climate resilience and economic growth,” Mr. Buah emphasized.
Local leadership also plays a crucial role. Paramount Chief Naa Pagraninge Saakoe Mornah III of Sankana expressed strong support, recognizing how combining traditional knowledge with innovative planting techniques can secure the shea tree’s future while boosting community prosperity.
Funded by the United Nations Development Programme and the Green Climate Fund, and implemented by the GSA and Forestry Commission, GSLERP reflects a powerful partnership advancing environmental stewardship and economic development. The Shea Day celebration featured symbolic tree planting ceremonies and reinforced ongoing campaigns to protect and expand shea parklands.
As Africa faces mounting climate challenges and socio-economic pressures, the shea tree emerges as a beacon of hope—fueling inclusive growth, empowering women, and fostering sustainable ecosystems vital to rural livelihoods across the continent.
