Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has challenged entrepreneurs, researchers and businesses in Northern Ghana to develop innovative ways of processing shea butter to improve its shelf life and unlock greater economic value for the region.
Speaking at the Northern Business Fair on Saturday, July 25, Haruna Mohammed described shea as Northern Ghana’s greatest comparative advantage urging the region to move beyond traditional production methods to create products that can compete more effectively on local and international markets.
He noted that while the shea industry already contributes significantly to Ghana’s export earnings and economic growth, there remains considerable untapped potential through innovation and value addition.
“Our biggest comparative advantage is shea. Shea has contributed a lot to the growth of this country, and we have seen its contribution to the economy and sustainability,” he said.
Haruna Mohammed specifically called for research into preserving shea butter so it remains stable for longer periods without melting, arguing that such innovation could expand its commercial appeal and open new market opportunities.
“The challenge that I’m throwing to all of us is that let’s look at shea. How can we process shea butter so that it does not melt and can stay like other packaged products? Let us take it as a challenge, study it and ensure we do something different so that Northern Ghana can stand tall among all,” he stated.
He emphasised that the responsibility for transforming the shea industry rests not only with government but also with individuals, innovators and the private sector, urging stakeholders to invest in research and product development that will strengthen the region’s competitiveness.
The Northern Business Fair, organised by Channel One TV and Citi FM, brings together businesses, entrepreneurs and investors from across the country to showcase products, forge partnerships and explore opportunities for enterprise growth in Northern Ghana.
The Two day fair is sponsored by Ecobank, the National Petroleum Authority, the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), and Northshore Apparel Ghana Ltd.
