Kenya’s Shea Butter Exports Soar on Global Organic Cosmetics Demand

Kenya’s shea butter exports reached Ksh6.8 billion in 2023—a 65% increase—driven by demand from EU and U.S. cosmetic brands for natural ingredients. Over 200,000 women in Western Kenya, especially Vihiga and Kakamega, collect and process nuts. Certified organic shea now fetches up to $8/kg, up from $3 in 2021. New processing hubs in Kisumu and Bungoma ensure quality and packaging. The government, with UN Women, is scaling cooperatives and linking them to global buyers via e-commerce. The sector could employ 500,000 women by 2030, making it a pillar of rural women’s economic empowerment.