Shea Network Ghana, an NGO would organise the maiden edition of Shea African Cosmetic Products Exhibition in November 2014, at the Osu Presbyterian Hall in Accra.

The event, which seeks to encourage people to rediscover and celebrate shea butter and shea-based beauty products, is to be hosted by Shea Network Ghana, a non-governmental organization with support from Global Shea Alliance and the US Agency for International Development.

Ms Grace Perkins, Communications Manager of Global Shea Alliance told the GNA in a telephone interview on Tuesday that the event would feature about 40 regional manufacturers who use African indigenous ingredients in their cosmetics.

She said as part of the event people who would attend would get discounted cosmetic products and free sample to help support the initiative of patronizing African made products.

“By bringing together cosmetics users, local manufacturers, soap makers, retailers, grocery stores, Ghanaian businesses and banks, salons, and government officials, the event will showcase the high quality and unique uses of shea-based products,” she explained.

Ms Perkins explained that shea butter, which was extracted from shea nuts, mostly found in northern Ghana could be used in its raw form or incorporated into beauty products.

“Known for its restorative properties, shea is used for toiletry products, makeup, lotions and creams as well as hair care products. Its nutrients are known to slow down the skin’s signs of aging,” she said.

Ms Perkins said the shea industry currently employs over 16 million women in rural communities in 21 countries across Africa and that people could contribute to the growth of the industry in their respective country to develop the rural communities by buying locally grown and manufactured products.