Karite butter: Environmental degradation and health risks

Natiokobadara is an area of high shea butter production in the town of Korhogo in northern Côte d'Ivoire. Shea butter production is a successful socio-economic model for the women of Natiokobadara. This activity has become a source of income for them, enabling some to contribute to the family budget. However, this locality presents a complex spatial framework due to the problems of environmental degradation caused by shea butter production. This has a number of consequences for the living environment of the local population. These consequences manifest themselves in the form of illegal dumping, the emergence of pathologies and exposure to health risks. This study examines the health risks incurred by women during shea butter production and the rational management of the environment. It is based on documentary research and field surveys. The results show that shea butter production is an activity carried out by illiterate women. As a result, production methods remain archaic.