In many West African communities, shea butter is more than a beauty ingredient—it’s a lifeline. Millions of women gather and process shea nuts, using the income to feed their families, educate their children, and invest in their futures. In this article, we explore why shea is known as “women’s gold” and how conscious purchasing can help expand their economic opportunities.
In West Africa, Shea Butter is called ‘Women's Gold.’ Over 16 million women supplement their household income with proceeds made from transforming shea nuts into butter. Studies show that for every $1,000 of shea nuts sold an additional $1,500 is generated from other economic activities within the community. That's the power of the multiplier effect.
In essence, shea butter is as valuable as ‘gold’ and with it, women can create more opportunities for their children and communities.
By partnering with villages of women across West Africa, we are bridging the gap between resources and opportunity. We provide access to international markets for women producers and in turn, they provide us with a consistent supply of the ingredient that is essential to the Shea Radiance line.