The Chief Executive Officer of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, has visited the Bole Sub-Station of the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) in the Savannah Region to gain first-hand insight into research efforts aimed at transforming Ghana’s shea industry.

The visit took the CEO and his team to CRIG’s nursery and shea plantation, where research showcased improved shea varieties developed to address the long gestation period associated with naturally occurring shea trees in the wild. The Bole Sub-Station is recognized for its pioneering research, particularly the development of short-gestation shea seedlings and cashew capable of producing quality yields within a shorter timeframe.

Dr. Osei Okrah was taken through the propagation processes, performance characteristics, and agronomic requirements of the improved shea varieties. Discussions focused on how research and innovation can support the expansion of shea production, improve productivity across the value chain, and contribute to the commercialization of the crop.

The visit also provided an opportunity for the TCDA delegation to familiarize themselves with research activities, assess the challenges confronting the institute and explore collaborative approaches to strengthening Ghana’s shea sector.

The engagement forms part of TCDA’s broader efforts to develop sustainable strategies for increasing shea production, promoting best agronomic practices, and enhancing the competitiveness of Ghana’s shea value chain with improved quality seedings.