Socio-Economic Role of Sha (Corn Beer) in the Livelihood of Value Chain Actors and Consumers in Cameroon

Abstract

Sha is an alcoholic beverage made by brewing and fermentation of cereals, usually germinated maize. In some parts of Africa, maize malt and grains are used to produce a lighter colored beer with a mellower flavor and it is given different names depending on the sub-region. In Cameroon, sha is produced in rural and urban areas and play an important role in the livelihood of the value chain actors and consumers both socially and economically. It is much consumed during moments of joy and sadness. This review reveals that there are two principal methods used for preparing sha in Cameroon from the main ingredient- germinated maize. Reward of cooperate work, means of communication, entertainment, friendship pacts, and easing stress and depression are some of the social role of sha while income generation, employment creation, increased economic activities and generation of taxes to the nation are some of the economic role of sha in Cameroon. However, poor processing and storage facilities, limited market, high temperatures, adulteration, lack of support and disunity of brewers among others limits the achievement of these roles. The paper concludes that sha plays an essential role in the livelihood of the value chain actors and consumers in Cameroon. It is therefore, recommended that the government and well-wishers should improve on this sector and that brewers should work as a team.