|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has emphasized the significant role of the 24-hour economy policy in enhancing productivity, creating jobs, and strengthening value chains within the shea sector. During her address at the opening of the SHEA 2026 Conference, she also highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability, focusing on the protection of shea parklands, improved soil fertility, and ongoing support for farmers across the savannah ecological zones.
The Vice President made these remarks at the SHEA 2026 Conference, hosted by the Global Shea Alliance with backing from the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Secretariat. The Global Shea Alliance, which was established in 2011 under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, has grown significantly over the past 15 years, fostering impactful collaboration to advance the shea industry across Africa. This year’s conference brought together participants from 21 African countries along with key development partners.
In her speech, Professor Opoku-Agyemang underscored the urgent need for Ghana and Africa to transition from exporting raw shea materials to engaging in value-added production, aligning with the Government’s Reset Agenda aimed at accelerating industrial growth. She pointed out that the shea sector remains a crucial source of livelihood for hundreds of thousands of women, whose contributions are vital for sustaining households and supporting the national economy. Given the increasing global demand for shea products, the Vice President stressed the need for Ghana to capture greater value through processing, innovation, and expanded market access.
While acknowledging the progress made, she called for a forward-thinking approach to ensure that the benefits of the growing shea industry are equitably shared, particularly among the women who form the backbone of the sector.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang expressed confidence that the discussions at SHEA 2026 would lead to practical solutions and renewed partnerships, contributing to Ghana’s economic transformation and advancing Africa’s broader development goals.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source: Loco tv