Why the trees behind 'women's gold' beauty creams are under threat
Summary
A former teacher in Uganda, Mustafa Gerima, is trying to save the shea trees, currently under threat due to deforestation. The shea butter, derived from these trees, is commonly used in beauty creams and is a crucial source of income for local communities who are now however, focusing more on tree chopping for charcoal production.Key Facts
- Mustafa Gerima, a former biology teacher in Uganda, is working to protect the shea trees.
- Shea butter, commonly used in beauty products, is derived from these trees.
- Locals have started chopping down shea trees more frequently for charcoal production as it's more profitable.
- The shea tree population has significantly decreased in recent years, according to Uganda's environmental ministry.
- Uganda loses about 100,000 hectares (250,000 acres) of forest coverage yearly, a significant portion of which includes shea nut trees.
- Mariam Chandiru, a shea butter producer from Koboko town, has seen her business suffer due to poor shea nut harvests.
- Charcoal from shea trees is popular as it is deemed to burn longer than other types of charcoal.
- Professor John Bosco Okullo blamed years of civil unrest and displacement of communities for the problems with deforestation.
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