THE ROLE OF GRAMEEN GHANA IN IMPROVING INCOME OF WOMEN SHEA BUTTER PROCESSORS

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Grameen Ghana’s microcredit scheme in improving the incomes of women engaged in shea butter processing in Ghana. Cross-sectional data obtained from 414 women were fitted into a regression model. The results indicate that Grameen Ghana’s credit programme has not significantly improved the income of women processors who participated in the project suggesting that the objective of the project that aims at improving the incomes of women shea butter processors cannot be attained unless women shea processors gain improved access to market services, particularly international market. This is because the regression results show that women shea processors’ ability to affect (increase) incomes, is significantly determined by their levels of education and market access. In order to maximize the welfare of shea processors, there is the need to embark on activities that link shea butter producers to market opportunities. It is equally important for Grameen Ghana to strengthen its education for credit activities through capacity development of women shea butter processors participating in the project.