President of National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN), Mr Mohammed Kontagora says there is a need to boost the Shea sector as it serves as a source of personal care products, natural food and plays a pivotal role in driving the economic growth of the country.
Mr Kontagora said this during a Media Launch for the upcoming 2024 Annual Shea Conference organised by the National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN) and the Global Shea Alliance GSA in Abuja.
He said the theme for this year’s conference, “Bridging the Gap,” resonates deeply with the goals and aspirations of the Nigerian Shea industry.
According to him, “Bridging the gap, in the context of the Nigerian Shea industry, means addressing the challenges and barriers that hinder our progress towards sustainability.”
“These barriers include insufficient investment, untapped market opportunities, weak policy frameworks, insecurity and social inequalities. It is crucial that we identify these challenges, discuss them openly, and work collaboratively to find practical solutions.”
“Our expectations are high, and we anticipate that the event will not only showcase success stories but also provide a platform to share initiatives that have successfully bridged the gap between our industry’s vision and its present reality.”
The Managing Director, Global Shea Alliance, Mr Aron Adu who revealed that the conference is scheduled to take place in Abuja from the 5th to the 7th of March 2024 said the conference promises to be a pivotal event for the Shea industry as it brings together over 500 stakeholders representing every facet of the Shea Value Chain.
Mr Adu who was represented by the Business Development Manager and projec lead, Mr Cornelius Kakraba explained that the theme of the conference signifies commitment to addressing the challenges that hinder progress and finding innovative solutions that promote sustainability, foster collaboration, and empower women throughout the Shea value chain.
“Throughout Shea 2024, our discussions will delve into the implications of new regulations, explore emerging trends affecting Shea supply and demand, and deliberate on strategies to make our industry adaptive to climate change and resilient against regional security challenges.”
“We will engage in a collective effort to identify barriers, share success stories, and promote collaboration across governments, NGOs, businesses, and local communities.” He added.
Mr Kakraba while highlighting achievements of the Global Shea Alliance said under the GSA’s Sustainability Program, 116,622 women collectors and processors witnessed significant improvements in ensuring the sustainable growth of the Shea industry.
“Notably, 5,065 hectares of Shea Parklands have been protected, 266,598 shea and non-shea trees have been planted, and an impressive $22,718,930 of investment has been facilitated.” He spoke.
“Under our Industry promotion, the GSA has expanded the use of shea to two new markets through innovative policies, we have also engaged in two pivotal policy harmonization initiatives and witnessed a remarkable 60% increase in shea processing across Africa.”
“As we prepare for Shea 2024 and the thought-leadership discussions, presentations, exchange of knowledge and best practices, and the many collaborations that this conference will present, let us remember the impact our actions and decisions today will have on the future.” He added.
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