The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) is making strides to elevate Ghana’s shea industry to new heights, with Chief Executive Officer Dr Andy Osei Okrah calling for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders. At the recent 2025 World Shea Expo in Tamale, Dr Okrah emphasized the need for government institutions, development partners, private investors, traditional leaders, researchers, and value chain actors to work together to unleash the full potential of the shea sector.
With the vision of positioning the shea industry as a key driver of Ghana’s economy, Dr Okrah highlighted the importance of implementing the right regulations, licensing, and policy frameworks. The TCDA’s Shea Sector Plan aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda, focusing on production, processing, and job creation.
The shea sector, under the TCDA’s strategic tree crops, has the capacity to generate billions of dollars annually through value addition and industrialization. Dr Okrah urged all stakeholders to join forces with TCDA to build a sustainable shea industry by 2030, empowering women, creating opportunities for youth, and generating thousands of jobs, especially in the northern regions.
In a bid to encourage young people to venture into shea cultivation, the TCDA is collaborating with the National Service Authority. By increasing tree planting and productivity, the future of the shea industry can be secured. Efforts are also underway to support women involved in nut-picking activities with tricycles, personal protective equipment, and other tools to enhance productivity and incomes.
Looking ahead, Dr Okrah challenged researchers and academia to collaborate with TCDA in developing climate-resilient shea varieties with shorter fruiting cycles. Innovation is key to sustaining the shea sector, especially in the face of climate change, to ensure higher yields for both local consumption and export markets.
Commending the organizers and development partners of the World Shea Expo, Dr Okrah reiterated TCDA’s commitment to streamlining regulations, strengthening partnerships, and promoting value addition in the shea industry. The Expo, themed “Empowering Women and Youth-led SMEs in the Shea Value Chain: The Role of Government and Financial Institutions,” showcased the path forward for unlocking the full value of shea for Ghana’s economic transformation.
As we move forward, collective action and collaboration will be instrumental in realizing the full potential of the shea industry in Ghana. The TCDA’s vision, coupled with the support and engagement of all stakeholders, will pave the way for a thriving shea sector that contributes significantly to the country’s economic growth and development.
