Photo: IUCN
Allanblackia is a genus of evergreen tree which grows in the tropical rainbelt of Africa. Mature trees bear large brown fruits which contain seeds that yield Allanblackia oil. Due to its unique composition, the Allanblackia seed's oil is excellent for producing margarines, spreads, and other products. These properties, along with the fact that it can be sustainably produced, have created a growing demand for Allanblackia oil.
Currently, men and women from rural villages in parts of tropical Africa harvest Allanblackia seeds in the wild and crush them to produce the oil on a small scale. However, wild harvesting does not yield enough oil to meet anticipated market demands. Considering its immense potential as both a cash crop and an indigenous tree to help restore degraded landscapes, finding sustainable ways to grow and produce more Allanblackia could bring many social, environmental, and economic benefits to local communities.
A number of organisations have come together to form the Allanblackia Partnership to establish tree nurseries, domesticate planting stock, and utilise other sustainable means of planting Allanblackia. These efforts are focused on establishing ways to ensure that both the local people and environment continue to benefit from Allanblackia long into the future.
See this infographic to learn more.
