Climate change threatens 'women's gold' shea butter in West Africa

The production of shea butter, a vital economic resource known as "women's gold," is under severe threat from climate change across West Africa's Sahel region. A new report highlights how shifting weather patterns and environmental degradation are disrupting the harvest and quality of shea nuts, impacting millions of women who depend on this commodity.

Climate Impacts on Yield and Quality

Erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and intense precipitation linked to a changing climate are directly reducing shea nut yields and degrading their quality. Obed Dadzie, marketing manager at The Savannah Fruits Company, stated that "no supplier in the sector can keep up with global demand due to the impacts of climate change." He explained that irregular wet seasons weaken tree growth and lower the nuts' fat content, which directly reduces butter output. This environmental stress compounds existing pressures, including the loss of over 8 million shea trees annually to logging and land conversion.

Socio-Economic and Ecological Consequences

The decline poses a profound threat to women's livelihoods, as the harvesting and processing of shea nuts are traditionally female-led activities. The income from shea butter enables many women to support their families and fund education. Beyond its economic value, the shea tree plays a critical ecological role, providing shade that protects staple crops like millet from extreme heat. Environmental activist Mustafa Gerima noted a significant drop in productivity over recent decades, linking it to altered rainfall patterns.

Global Market Ripple Effects

The shortages are now being felt in international markets, particularly in Europe, where demand for natural and vegan cosmetic products continues to grow. Importers warn that while global consumption rises, the women at the start of the supply chain are bearing the highest cost. This situation underscores a global interconnection, similar to how agricultural challenges in one region, like Türkiye's pivotal fruit and nut sector, can have worldwide market implications.