By George Antwi
The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) is taking significant steps to create an enabling environment for women in the shea butter industry by engaging key stakeholders and industry players. As part of this initiative, the Acting CEO of TCDA, Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, paid a courtesy visit to the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, to explore strategies for strengthening the sector and expanding job opportunities in the region.
During the meeting, Dr. Okrah emphasized TCDA’s commitment to supporting the shea industry through technical assistance, market linkages, and policy advocacy to ensure sustainable growth. “Women play a vital role in the shea sector, and our objective is to help them scale up their businesses, access better markets, and enhance their livelihoods,” he stated.
Hon. Ali Adolf John commended TCDA’s initiative and reaffirmed the region’s support in strengthening the shea industry. He underscored the economic potential of shea butter and stressed the need for stronger public-private partnerships to maximize its benefits.
As part of the visit, the TCDA delegation toured the Yumzaa Shea Butter Processing Center, a leading facility that employs over 240 women, making up 90% of its workforce. The company has embraced the government’s 24-hour economy policy to boost production and meet growing market demands.
Madam Zakaria Adam, CEO of Yumzaa Shea Butter, highlighted the impact of the initiative, stating, “By running 24-hour shifts, we are not only increasing our output but also creating more employment opportunities for women in the region. This allows us to expand into export markets and improve livelihoods.”
Dr. Okrah lauded the factory’s efforts and reaffirmed TCDA’s dedication to supporting women-led businesses, improving access to financing, and facilitating trade opportunities. “Women are the backbone of the shea industry, and their empowerment is crucial to driving Ghana’s agricultural transformation. TCDA will continue working with partners to provide the necessary resources and training to help them thrive,” he assured.
The Northern Region remains a major hub for shea butter production in Ghana, with thousands of women engaged in processing and trade. However, challenges such as limited access to financing, fluctuating market prices, and inadequate processing facilities continue to hinder the industry’s full potential. TCDA’s intervention seeks to address these barriers and position the shea sector as a key driver of women’s economic empowerment.
