Alban Bagbin Champions SheaPark Project in Wa to Empower Women and Boost Local Industry

Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin - Speaker of Ghana's Parliament

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has reaffirmed his commitment to regional development and women’s empowerment through the groundbreaking SheaPark Resource and Industrial Hub project soon to be launched in Wa on Saturday . The initiative aims to harness Ghana’s rich shea nut resources to stimulate local industry, create jobs, and improve livelihoods—particularly for women.

Ms. Kate Addo, Coordinating Director of the Public Affairs Sub-Division of Parliament, speaking on a Wa based Radio Mak interview on Friday emphasized that , Rt. Hon. Bagbin’s dedication to the Upper West Region is evident in his advocacy for the SheaPark project. She explained that the project’s strategic location in Wa stems from the region’s abundant shea nut resources, which are vital for the production of shea butter—a key commodity with significant global demand.

Ms. Addo revealed that the Speaker’s vision extends beyond regional boundaries. She disclosed that Rt. Hon. Bagbin has engaged the President of Ghana to expand the SheaPark initiative into a national endeavor, aiming to maximize its economic benefits across the country.

A core pillar of the project is women’s empowerment. Given the dominant role women play in the shea butter industry, SheaPark is poised to serve as a catalyst for economic independence, livelihood enhancement, and income generation for thousands of women in the Upper West Region and beyond. Ms. Addo highlighted that the project is projected to directly employ over 7,000 women, making it one of the largest women-centric industrial initiatives in Ghana.

The SheaPark Resource and Industrial Hub is set to significantly advance local industrialization, foster job creation, and position Ghana as a key player in the global shea value chain. The official launch of the project is scheduled for Saturday, 31st January 2024, promising a new chapter of economic growth and women’s empowerment in the region.

The project has garnered support from various stakeholders, including members of Parliament’s communication team, public engagement officials, and security agencies, underscoring its importance for national development.