Ms. Aisha Rilwanu’s Initiatives at SHEAPURE LTD, Nigeria
1. The Motivation Behind Establishing This Collaborative Project
The reason we launched the SHEAPURE Project is our desire to connect Japan’s advanced technology with Africa’s abundant natural resources, and to unlock new possibilities for local communities. Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of shea butter, accounting for 55% of global production. Many rural women are engaged in shea butter production, which supports their livelihoods.
However, traditional processing methods have limitations in terms of quality and efficiency, making it difficult to enhance competitiveness in the global market. Through the SIH JICA Program[3], we encountered the “Supercritical Fluid Extraction Technology[4]” developed by the Watanabe Laboratory at Tohoku University. By combining Nigeria’s rich resources with Japanese technology, we are convinced that we can transform the shea butter industry.
Our goal is not only to produce world-class, high-quality products, but also to create environments where the women working in shea butter production can earn higher incomes, have sustainable jobs, and take pride in their work. By fusing Japanese innovation with African entrepreneurial spirit, we aim to realize a new growth model that empowers local communities.
Women Engaged in Shea Butter Production in Nigeria
2. Overview of the Collaborative Project
At SHEAPURE LTD, we are working to build a sustainable shea butter production system that leverages Japan’s cutting-edge “Supercritical Fluid Extraction Method” and the knowledge and resources of African rural women.
Specifically, we manufacture high-quality shea butter and related products that meet international standards for use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, while also focusing on waste reduction and environmental sustainability. We are establishing local processing hubs, providing technical training to women, and aiming for direct sales to the global market—thereby increasing producers’ incomes, promoting fair trade, and enhancing the international competitiveness of African shea.
We strive to balance social impact with commercial sustainability and create a new model that combines technology with the power of local communities.
Presentation by SHEAPURE LTD at the QUEST Idea Competition
3. Introduction of Co-Creation Partner
SHEAPURE LTD collaborates with the Watanabe Laboratory at Tohoku University and Across Tohoku Co., Ltd. The Watanabe Laboratory is responsible for research and technology transfer of the “Supercritical Fluid Extraction Technology,” while Across Tohoku Co., Ltd. supports pilot plant design, cost analysis, and life cycle assessment (LCA).
Together with these partners, we are building the scientific, technological, and industrial foundations necessary to realize and expand this project.
A photo with SHEAPURE LTD and the Watanabe Laboratory
4. Message to the Public and Call for Collaboration
SHEAPURE LTD aims to produce sustainable, high-quality shea butter products and revitalize local communities. We sincerely seek the cooperation of everyone who shares our vision.
Specifically, we are looking for support and collaboration in the following areas:
- Business partnerships with cosmetics and pharmaceutical companies that wish to use high-quality, ethically sourced shea butter and raw materials in their products
- Financial support for establishing pilot plants, strengthening technology, and expanding training programs for local women
- Technical collaboration for process optimization, life cycle assessment (LCA), and sustainable packaging
- Building networks with global markets and socially responsible investors, and support for public relations activities
Through partnership with all of you, we will provide high-quality raw materials to industry, empower local communities, and realize environmentally conscious production.
Ms. Aisha Rilwanu from SHEAPURE LTD and Women in Nigeria
[1] JICA Website (Application Closed on Jan 12th, 2025) Call for Application: Social Innovator Hub Incubation Program https://www.jica.go.jp/english/activities/issues/private_sec/information/2024/sih2025_2nd.html
2 JICA Website [11] Dr. Masaru Watanabe
https://www.jica.go.jp/english/activities/issues/private_sec/SIH2025_dr_watanabe.html