The Upper West Shea Festival, held on Saturday, April 26th, at the Department of Parks and Gardens in Cantonments, Accra, served as a vibrant showcase of the cultural richness and economic potential of the Upper West Region, particularly highlighting the significance of shea nut production and its transformative impact on women’s livelihoods. Dr. Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, graced the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour, underscoring the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and job creation through strategic initiatives like the Shea Festival.
Dr. Pelpuo lauded the festival as a crucial platform for advancing economic opportunities, especially for women deeply involved in the shea nut value chain, from cultivation and harvesting to processing and marketing. He emphasized the pivotal role of shea nuts in driving employment and job creation within the Upper West Region, particularly in the Wa Municipality. Recognizing the festival’s alignment with the Ministry’s policy objectives, he affirmed its significance in empowering women and providing them with sustainable income-generating avenues. He envisioned the festival as a catalyst for economic growth and a testament to the government’s dedication to fostering inclusive development.
The Minister further highlighted the immense potential of the shea industry, extending beyond local markets to capture the attention of international consumers, particularly in markets like the United States. He expressed confidence in the global appeal of shea-based products and the potential for Ghanaian women entrepreneurs to tap into this lucrative market. This recognition of international demand reinforces the importance of investing in the shea industry, not just as a local livelihood source, but as a potential driver of export revenue and national economic growth.
Dr. Pelpuo’s presence and address at the festival signified the government’s commitment to supporting and nurturing the shea industry. He pledged the Ministry’s continued support for future collaborations aimed at amplifying the festival’s impact and fostering entrepreneurship among women nationwide. This commitment extends beyond mere rhetoric, encompassing tangible support in areas such as capacity building, market access, and financial assistance to empower women entrepreneurs to thrive in the shea industry. His pledge reflects the government’s broader strategy of leveraging local industries to stimulate economic activity and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
Beyond its economic focus, the Upper West Shea Festival was a celebration of cultural heritage and community spirit. The event featured a diverse array of activities, including free eye and health screenings, providing essential healthcare services to attendees while showcasing the holistic approach to community development. Cultural performances added a vibrant dimension to the festival, celebrating the rich traditions of the Upper West Region and showcasing the artistic talents of its people. Exhibitions of shea-based products further highlighted the versatility and economic potential of shea, demonstrating its transformation from raw material to a diverse range of finished goods.
The involvement of women’s groups, such as the Women in Action Network, added a crucial voice to the festival. These groups shared the unique challenges they face operating within the shea industry, providing valuable insights into the realities faced by women entrepreneurs on the ground. Their appeals for greater support, including access to wider markets and improved business development opportunities, resonated with the festival’s theme of empowerment. Their participation emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts involving government, private sector, and civil society organizations to create a more supportive and enabling environment for women-led businesses in the shea industry. The festival, therefore, became a platform not only for celebration but also for constructive dialogue and advocacy, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in the shea sector.
