The opportunity
Ghana is one of West Africa’s largest producers of raw cashew and shea, yet most of the crop has historically been exported unprocessed. The Bono East region offered a concentrated growing belt, road access to Tema and Takoradi ports, and farmer groups looking for a reliable buyer.
The investor, a mid-sized agro-processor with operations in two other African markets, was looking for a second processing base with year-round raw material supply.
Why Ghana
Duty-free access to regional markets under ECOWAS and AfCFTA, political stability and an established export logistics chain made Ghana the preferred location over two shortlisted alternatives.
District-level data on land, crop volumes and infrastructure, published through the Investment Opportunities Map, shortened site selection from months to weeks.
The results
The Kintampo hub reached commercial operation in 2024. It now processes 18,000 tonnes a year, with 70% of raw material sourced from contracted smallholders who receive agronomy support and guaranteed prices.
Processed kernels and shea butter are exported to Europe and Asia, earning foreign exchange and keeping value addition in the region.
From first enquiry to site handover took under five months, with land, permits and incentives coordinated through a single GIPA investment officer.
How GIPA supported the investment
- Matched the investor with three pre-assessed sites and district assembly contacts
- Coordinated land documentation with the Lands Commission and traditional authorities
- Advised on agro-processing incentives and import duty exemptions for machinery
- Facilitated introductions to farmer cooperatives and local financing partners
