Empower 500 Nigerian Shea Processors Sustainably

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the shea sector and to explore opportunities for premium market access, BLPARW collaborated with the Niger State Ministry of Environment to conduct comprehensive feasibility studies on the Beji Shea Parkland.

The studies aimed to:

• Assess the current state of the Beji Shea Parkland: This involved a thorough evaluation of the parkland's ecological health, including biodiversity assessment, soil quality analysis, and an assessment of the current state of shea tree populations.

• Investigate the potential for organic certification: Explore the feasibility of obtaining organic certification for shea products sourced from the Beji Shea Parkland by assessing compliance with organic standards and identifying any necessary improvements in production and processing practices.

• Develop strategies for deforestation mitigation: Analyze the threats to the parkland, such as deforestation, land degradation, and climate change, and develop strategies for mitigating these threats. This may include community-based forest management plans, reforestation initiatives, and the promotion of sustainable land use practices.

• Advocate for policy changes: Advocate for the development and implementation of policies that support the sustainable management and conservation of the Beji Shea Parkland, such as improved forest governance, community-based forest management programs, and incentives for sustainable shea production.

By conducting these feasibility studies, BLPARW and the Niger State Ministry of Environment aimed to gather critical data and develop a roadmap for the sustainable development of the shea sector in the Beji region, ensuring the long-term viability of this valuable natural resource and the livelihoods of the communities that depend on it.

Join us to preserve the environment and ensure economic growth.

A community of 500 resilient women has built a sustainable livelihood from processing shea nuts into butter. However, the future of their businesses Is threatened by the dwindling shea resources due to deforestation. The women, who once relied on the forest reserve for their livelihood, are struggling to earn a decent income as they face longer distances to collect shea nuts and the constant threat of snake bites.

BLPARW stepped in to change the narrative. We are committed to empowering these women by providing them with the necessary infrastructure, honing their entrepreneurial skills, and advocating for environmental conservation.

To address the issue of deforestation, we are exploring a partnership with the Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeri to develop briquetting solutions from shea waste. This innovative approach will provide an alternative fuel source, reducing the need to cut down shea trees.

Furthermore, we have secured a partnership with GIZ to facilitate e-commerce, enabling these women to leverage digital markets and expand their sales channels.

This is just the beginning. We need your support to achieve our ambitious goals of reducing climate change, preserving the shea forest, and ensuring economic prosperity for these women. Together, we can create a sustainable future for generations to come.

By supporting BLPARW, you are not only empowering these women but also contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Let's leave no one behind and create a more equitable and sustainable world.

Links:

• WEBSITE