Shea Tree Conservation

Shea Trees Threatened by Charcoal Production

Across the central Togo savanna, shea trees are being threatened by charcoal production. Shea trees have long been protected by farmers and herders, since they are a valuable resouces. Unfortunately, as populations increase, demands for fuel and money also rise. Shea trees produce a very high quality charcoal that burns very hot. In some places, the price for shea charcoal is much higher than the price of charcoal from other trees.

How GACE and the Agbanga Karite Group are Helping

1. Paying a fair price for shea nuts and shea butter so the trees are more valuable live than as charcoal.
2. Holding seminars in key charcoal and shea nut producing villages to encourage protection of this valuable resource

How You Can Help

Support fair trade shea butter and projects for alternative energy sources in West and Central African communities.