The overall objective of this study was to improve the production and marketing of shea tree products through the use of a fully functioning, sustainable system. The research covered many aspects of shea, from the genetics of shea, over the biochemical properties of the nut, to its marketing in Africa and beyond. Making the shea value chain more transparent will help producers and consumers alike to use and trade this product. Within the project, UNIQUE analyzed the value chain of shea products in five countries (Mali, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Ghana, and Uganda) to assist economically marginalized producer countries to obtain access to the global market for shea products.

• Analysis of the value chain of shea products.
• Identifying the shared critical success factors among key producers, processing units and buyers.
• Clarifying how shea based enterprises will fit better into the international shea value chain.