Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Shea (GESI-SHEA)

01The challenge

Women are the backbone of the shea value chain in Northern Ghana, yet they often face barriers such as limited decision-making power, unequal access to markets, limited financial resources, and harmful social norms that restrict their participation in economic activities.

Without targeted interventions, many women remain excluded from opportunities that could significantly improve their livelihoods.

02Our intervention

DFWC implemented the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Shea (GESI-SHEA) programme to address these inequalities and strengthen women's participation across the shea value chain. The programme focuses on:

• Gender awareness and community sensitisation
• Women's leadership development
• Strengthening women's cooperatives
• Advocacy for inclusive policies
• Improving women's participation in markets and decision-making

03The impact

• Women are now actively participating in cooperative leadership and decision-making.
• Community leaders have become more supportive of women's economic roles.
• Women's groups have strengthened their bargaining power in shea markets.
• Awareness of gender equality and social inclusion has increased across communities.