The Aloe Vera Industry: A Promising Sector for Africa's Economic Development
The aloe vera plant has been used for centuries for its exceptional properties, and its use has been widespread in traditional medicine and cosmetics. Today, it has become an essential raw material in various sectors, including dermo-cosmetics, functional nutrition, dietary supplements, veterinary products, and wellness beverages. In this context, Africa has a unique opportunity to capitalize on its favorable climate, available land, and the growing importance of women in agriculture to make aloe vera cultivation a tool for sustainable development, economic empowerment of rural women, and local value creation.
A Global Demand on the Rise
The global aloe vera market is experiencing remarkable growth, with an estimated value of nearly $890 million in 2024 and expected to reach $1.53 billion by 2033 (IMARC Group). The extract segment, highly sought after in natural cosmetics and nutraceuticals, is projected to increase from $2.29 billion to over $5.5 billion by 2034 (Precedence Research). Similarly, the stabilized gel market is expected to grow from $345.6 million to $758.7 million during the same period, with an annual growth rate of 8.2% (Future Market Insights). This global trend reflects a strong shift towards natural, traceable, and sustainable products. Consumers are demanding transparency, and industries are seeking reliable suppliers. However, Africa is still underrepresented in this value chain, despite its significant agricultural and human potential.
A Culture Perfectly Adapted to Africa's Realities
Aloe vera can be grown on poor soil, is resistant to drought, requires minimal water, and can be cultivated without chemical inputs. It can thrive in both the arid zones of the Sahel and the semi-arid regions of East Africa. Additionally, it offers multiple harvests per year, allowing for short-cycle exploitation and rapid profitability. Another significant advantage is that its cultivation is accessible, requiring no heavy machinery or complex infrastructure. It can be grown on small plots of land by individual women or cooperatives, with basic technical support.
First Transformation as a Lever for Added Value
The economic stakes lie in the transformation phase. Extracting the gel, stabilizing or drying it, allows for the production of a high-value semi-finished product. This step can be done artisanally, provided that certain hygiene, packaging, and traceability standards are met. It is essential to note that aloe vera products intended for human consumption or cosmetics must meet specific regulatory requirements. Sanitary authorizations, declarations to competent authorities, or certifications may be required, depending on the country. Technical and administrative support is necessary to ensure compliance with transformation units.
Inspiring Examples in Africa
Several projects led by women or women's groups demonstrate that this sector is not only viable but also a vector for impact. In Burkina Faso, for example, a women's cooperative in the Centre-Sud region has launched the production of stabilized aloe vera gel for the local market and export to Europe. With training in good agricultural practices and hygiene, they have been able to valorize a previously informal production. In Kenya, the Ilpolei Twala Cultural Manyatta Women Group, located in Laikipia County, brings together over 200 women from pastoral communities. With the support of the Laikipia Permaculture Centre, they have established aloe vera cultivation on community land. Their products are purchased by the British company Lush, specializing in natural cosmetics, creating a regular source of income (Kenya News Agency). In Senegal, initiatives in the Niayes and north of Thiès are beginning to explore the potential of this plant, particularly to meet the growing needs of natural cosmetics brands. These successes show that it is possible to build a sector around aloe vera, provided that production is structured, technical support is ensured, and commercial outlets are opened.
A Sector of the Future, Inclusive and Sustainable
Aloe vera should no longer be seen solely as a medicinal plant. It is a lever for economic, ecological, and social transformation. In Africa, it can enable thousands of rural women to access independent, profitable, and rewarding activities. Creating or supporting an aloe vera sector means investing in a local development model rooted in the continent's climatic and social realities. It also means responding to a global demand that is waiting for new, competent, committed, and ethical suppliers.
