Harnessing women's traditional ecological knowledge through photovoice to address shea tree caterpillar (Cirina butyrospermi) infestation in semi-arid Ghana

Climate change is intensifying the emergence of pests and diseases worldwide. Despite mounting studies across Africa focusing on staple and some tree crops, there is limited scholarly attention on the threats posed by the seasonal infestation of the shea tree caterpillar across the sub-Saharan African shea-growing belt. In northern Ghana, the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) provides the primary income and livelihood alternative for many women and their households. Drawing on feminist political ecology, this qualitative study employed photovoice to examine women's lived experiences, encompassing their observations, beliefs, and adaptive strategies related to shea caterpillar infestations in northern Ghana. Results from the visual and thematic analysis show a mix of both challenges and opportunities. The women perceive shea caterpillar infestations as increasingly unpredictable, with seasonal shifts and intensity attributed to changing climate patterns. They recognize caterpillars as pests that extensively defoliate shea trees while also providing a high-protein food source. The findings reveal conflicting perspectives on the effect of the caterpillar, with some women believing that defoliation increases shea yields by promoting new growth, while others associate it with yield declines, noting weakened trees post-infestation. This research highlights the diverse ecological knowledge of women in shea-growing regions, which is essential for building resilience against climate change and establishing sustainable shea production systems. It sets the stage for further exploration of the complexities of shea caterpillar infestations in the context of escalating climate change. Findings from this study indicate that a community-based approach could be an effective climate-informed strategy for pest management.