Shea butter production
Matt25 Foundation operates a small shea butter factory in Chera, Northern Ghana, where local women are at the heart of the process. We entered our fourth year of operation, marking a new chapter of growth and professionalism. Shea nuts are in high demand and we are hopeful for a strong harvest season in May.
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Our women’s group has grown from 15 to over 70 members, gaining skills and confidence every year. In 2025, we added soap-making training, creating new income opportunities. Investments like a borehole for clean water and a storage facility have improved hygiene, efficiency, and butter quality. We also expanded our team with a shea nut buyer and an assistant project manager to strengthen operations. Looking ahead, we are planning to build a fully equipped washroom, further improving working conditions.
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Our progress is being noticed. Nearby factories often ask us for advice, and we gladly share our experience—proof that our efforts are making a positive impact in the region. Finally, we secured a partnership with Berivita, a Dutch company, providing a stable market for our shea butter. This creates security and a predictable income for the women – an important step towards a sustainable future.
WHY CHERA?
Northern Ghana faces tough conditions with dry landscapes and limited resources. Agriculture is a key livelihood, but often affected by drought, contributing to widespread poverty. Initiatives like shea butter production are vital for improving economic conditions. ​Chera, a small village near Walewale, is one of those places where employment opportunities are scarce. The burdens of fieldwork, childcare, and household management fall on the shoulders of women. Recognizing the need to uplift the community and empower women, Matt25 Foundation has chosen to invest in Chera.
Nature's Nourishing Secret
Shea butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, which is native to West Africa. One of the primary producers and exporters of shea butter is Ghana, where the shea tree is widely cultivated. The butter is derived through a labor-intensive process that involves collecting and processing the nuts, leading to a rich and creamy substance with a distinctive nutty aroma. Shea butter is a key ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products, offering nourishment and hydration to the skin. Beyond its cosmetic applications, shea butter has deep cultural and economic significance in Ghana, playing a vital role in the livelihoods of local communities engaged in its production.
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Expanding horizons
Our vision extends beyond the current Shea Butter factory in Chera. Matt25 Foundation is committed to learning from the valuable experiences gained in Chera and using this knowledge to foster growth. Our ultimate goal is to empower the community by sharing the skills and resources necessary for them to independently sustain the venture. We aim to take a holistic, community-driven approach that goes beyond shea butter production, addressing broader needs to foster sustainable development.
In the long term, we hope to replicate this success in other locations, sharing the model and its benefits with communities that could equally thrive from similar opportunities.
