The PBC Shea Factory in Buipe has been revived after years of inactivity, sparking hopes of revitalising Ghana’s shea industry and supporting the government’s 24-hour economy policy.
However, concerns linger about the factory’s long-term sustainability due to raw material supply challenges. The state-owned facility, commissioned in 2012, was shut down in 2019 due to operational issues.
Managing Director Alhaji Abubakari Abdul-Mumin warned that Ghana risks losing its competitive edge unless the government bans raw shea nut exports. “Across Africa, countries have banned the exportation of shea nuts, and it is crucial for Ghana to follow suit to prevent a rush for the nuts that could negatively impact our local industry,” he said.
The Board Chairman, Rev. Aaron Fant, echoed the call, emphasizing that the factory’s sustainability depends on consistent access to raw materials. “Our appeal to the government is to ban the exportation of raw nuts so that we can add value by processing them and exporting semi-finished or finished products. This will ultimately create jobs, boost the economy, and yield better returns for our shea,” Rev. Fant said.
The factory has a processing capacity of up to 150,000 metric tons annually, valued at over $118 million. With the right support, it could transform the shea value chain and create new opportunities for youth and women. However, without a reliable supply of raw nuts, the factory’s future remains uncertain.
