The Global Shea Alliance has intensified its efforts to restore and protect shea parklands across Africa, launching a major reforestation campaign aimed at saving millions of shea trees from extinction.
Speaking at a regional event at Sankana in the Nadowli/Kaleo district of the Upper West Region on July 18, the Alliance called on governments, communities, and development partners to take immediate action to promote, plant, and protect shea trees.
The shea tree, revered for its environmental, social, and economic benefits, faces unprecedented threats from human activities such as large-scale mining, charcoal production, commercial agriculture, and unsustainable land use. These activities are accelerating deforestation across the Sahelian region, endangering a vital resource that has supported rural livelihoods for centuries.
“We are not just planting trees; we are planting hope, prosperity, and sustainability. Every shea tree protected today will help ensure a better future for our communities and our planet.”
The campaign, known as Action for Shea Parkland, aims to plant and nurture at least 10 million shea and native tree seedlings across East and West Africa. The Global Shea Alliance is also mobilising 10 million women to lead restoration efforts and lobbying for at least 10 countries to adopt national policies that prioritise the protection of shea trees.
The Overlord of the Sankana Traditional Council, Naa Pagranige Saakoe Mornah III, said the launch of the Shea Planting Project marks the beginning of a new journey toward economic empowerment, ecological sustainability, and the restoration of Shea trees, which he referred to as the “green gold of the north.”
According to him, introducing Shea seedling nursing and transplanting would create a synergy between tradition and innovation, providing sustainable livelihoods for the youth and women.
The Vice President of Suntaa Women Group, Alale Portia, stated that the group has acquired skills in nursing and transplanting Shea and other tree species, for which they receive payment. In addition to this, she said they have also received training in bushfire management, record keeping, and financial management.
She appealed for support in the form of a crushing machine, which she explained would enable the group to process Shea nuts for commercial purposes and expand their operations.
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