Ghana has officially launched the National Shea Commodity Platform (NSCP). This initiative aims to transform the country's shea industry from wild harvesting to commercial cultivation. The platform brings together government agencies, researchers, development partners, private businesses, and producer groups.
This new body will coordinate development across the shea sector. It seeks to improve the livelihoods of many people, especially women. The platform aims to support sustainable growth in a vital agricultural value chain. Ongoing research also promises to reduce maturity periods for shea trees and increase yields.
This move is part of Ghana's broader strategy to diversify its agricultural exports. It also builds on efforts to make agriculture a key driver of economic growth. Tree crops like cocoa have historically been central to the economy. The government now seeks to replicate this success with shea. This initiative aligns with goals to create jobs and boost rural development in the northern regions.
Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, CEO of the Tree Crops Development Authority, called the platform a major milestone. He stated, “The National Shea Commodity Platform represents perhaps the most important institutional innovation in Ghana’s shea sector in recent years.” The United Nations Development Programme proposed the platform in 2024. The Tree Crops Development Authority now hosts it.
The platform will operate through four main structures. These include the TCDA, a National Shea Advisory Committee, a Secretariat, and a Plenary. Five Technical Working Groups will support these structures. These groups will focus on key areas such as climate resilience, quality standards, market access, gender inclusion, and research.
The Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reduction Project also contributes significantly. Joseph Appiah, Acting Director of the Climate Change Unit at the Forestry Commission, confirmed its impact. This project has secured 54.5 million US dollars in funding. This includes 30.1 million US dollars from the Green Climate Fund. The project aims to reduce 6.139 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions within seven years. It plans to directly benefit over 100,000 people. It will reach approximately 540,000 people across Ghana's Northern Savannah Ecological Zone. Work has already begun, with more than 3,000 hectares under restoration. Another 3,000 hectares are marked for planting this season.
The platform is expected to strengthen connections within the value chain. It will also improve access to markets for shea producers and processors. This will help them secure better prices and expand into international markets. Women, who play a dominant role in collecting and processing shea, are key beneficiaries. The initiative will unlock the economic potential of Ghana’s shea industry. It will also support environmental sustainability and job creation.