By Victoria Ojeme

The United States government, in conjunction with the Global Shea Alliance (GSA), a non-profit industry association dedicated to championing sustainability, quality practices, and standards for shea in food and cosmetics, convened its annual conference in Abuja.

This year’s conference, themed ‘Bridging the Gap,’ aims to narrow the divide between the visionary goals of the shea industry and the urgent need for practical action.

Nigeria, home to the largest population of shea trees and collectors, is poised to become a central hub for production, processing, and innovation in the food and cosmetics sectors across West Africa. As the shea sector undergoes substantial growth, the conference serves as a pivotal platform to address challenges hindering market expansion, supply stability, resource management, climate adaptation, financing, and women’s economic empowerment.

President of the Global Shea Alliance, Mamatou Djaffo, stated, “Over 10 years ago, the Global Shea Alliance initiated structures to advance women in the industry. At Shea 2024, discussions will target park land management, resource conservation, women’s economic empowerment, youth involvement, digitalization strategies, and effective trade policies to unlock the full potential of the shea value chain.”

The three-day event is anticipated to draw over 500 participants and will feature presentations from industry professionals.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires David Greene, speaking on behalf of the United States government, expressed pride in supporting the Global Shea Alliance through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

USAID recently invested over $8 million under its Sustainable Shea Initiative to bolster the shea industry in seven West African countries, including Nigeria.