Beauty Out of Africa

The Multiplier Effect on the Shea Butter Value Chain

New shea processing facilities are coming online, creating jobs and expanding the market for millions of women who collect shea nuts to sustain their livelihoods. Processing shea in West Africa creates jobs in the region.

A USAID Trade Hub study indicates that every $1,000 increase in sales of shea nuts in rural villages leads to an additional $580 in new household income in Malian communities; this “multiplier effect” is likely similar across the region.

As more jobs and more income are generated, opportunities for value addition increase.

Excerpt taken from:http://www.watradehub.com/activities/tradewinds/feb11/global-shea-alliance-top-agenda-shea-2011-sustainable-solutions

Shea Butter Value Chain

The Shea Butter Value Chain describes the process by which the shea nut goes from the tree to the shelf of your local Wholefoods, Personal care boutique, or even a chocolate bar.

The major players in the value chain are

• The local women who are responsible for harvesting and processing the nuts and shea butter


• Local buying Agents or Middlemen who buy the nuts or butter from the women


• Brokers who purchase large quantities of nuts or butter for resale


• Exporters


• Foreign Buyers who import West African Shea butter for use in their products


• Retail Outlets


• Customers

Shea Butter Value Chain

The Shea Butter Value Chain describes the process by which the shea nut goes from the tree to the shelf of your local Wholefoods, Personal care boutique, or even a chocolate bar.

The major players in the value chain are

• The local women who are responsible for harvesting and processing the nuts and shea butter


• Local buying Agents or Middlemen who buy the nuts or butter from the women


• Brokers who purchase large quantities of nuts or butter for resale


• Exporters


• Foreign Buyers who import West African Shea butter for use in their products


• Retail Outlets


• Customers