Bounded by a shared vision for growth and financial independence, Suglo, Gub Katimaali, Kimoabang, Titroto, and Nlampom women groups have not only transformed their own lives, but are driving community development through shea butter production and processing in Ghana’s Northern Region.
Their remarkable journeys are a testament to the power of unity, leadership, and access to the right support systems. Thanks to strategic partnerships with Trade Line Consult and the Tamale Presbyterian Cooperative Credit Union (TPCCU), these women are rewriting the narrative of rural entrepreneurship in Ghana.
SUGLO WOMEN
Suglo Women Group, with 31 members secured GH¢100,000 in Loans. Led by the dynamic Fusheini Fusheina, the group’s turning point came when MSR and Tradeline Consult introduced them to TPCCU. With an initial loan of GH¢10,000, followed by a second loan of GH¢90,000, the group has seen exponential growth. “We always had the skills and the drive,” Fusheina says. “What we lacked was support. Now, we are not just surviving; we are thriving.”
Gub Katimaali, with 14 members also secured GH¢67,500 Loan. The leader, Suale Mariama formed Gub Katimaali to tackle challenges of scale and market access. Tradeline Consult recognized their commitment and facilitated a loan of GH¢67,500 from TPCCU in 2023. Prior to the loan, the group produced around 1,800 kg of shea nuts annually. Post-investment in modern equipment and training in financial literacy and business planning, their production soared to 4,500 kg per year by the end of 2024.
“This loan didn’t just grow our business. It grew our confidence. Now, we believe in our ability to succeed, plan, and lead.” – Mariama
Kimoabang Women Group (12 members), established in April 2021, with an impressive annual shea butter output of 98 tons, expanding this operation required more capital. Through Tradeline Consult’s intervention, the group secured GH¢88,000 in November 2024 from TPCCU for stockpiling shea nuts and ensuring uninterrupted production.
“With this loan, we didn’t just grow, we became a business force,” said one group member. The group also benefited from training in good production practices, loan utilization, and safeguarding measures to ensure a safe and empowering environment for all members.
Titroto Women Group, though smaller in size, the Titroto Women Group is no less impactful. With 11 women working together, the group has received training and mentorship through Tradeline Consult and is currently finalizing financing arrangements with TPCCU to support their own shea butter initiatives. Their progress is a clear indicator that empowerment is not about size, but about intention and support.
Leader of Nlampom women’s group
Nlampom Women Group (10 Women), despite producing high-quality shea, limited funds restricted their growth. Led by the vibrant Teeman Hannah, they reached out to Tradeline Consult, who connected them to TPCCU. Following a needs assessment, the group secured a GH¢17,500 loan. Before the loan, they produced 80 kg/month. Just four months later, with investment in raw materials, improved processing, and upgraded packaging, their output jumped to 400 kg/month.
“With the loan, we’ve not only grown our production, we’ve created a sustainable business and a sense of pride,” said Hannah.
Altogether, these five groups have accessed over GH¢273,000 in loans, investments that have yielded far-reaching returns. From increased production and income to job creation and market expansion, the ripple effects are undeniable. Their stories prove that when women are given the tools, trust, and training, they not only lift themselves out of poverty, they carry their families and entire communities with them.
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