My Journey with Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands: From Intern to Provincial Coordinator

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My name is Watson Steven Siosi, and I currently serve as the Provincial Coordinator for Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands (KPSI) in Makira Province. My journey with KPSI has been one of growth, learning and commitment to supporting farmers, processors, and rural communities here in Makira Province.

In year 2023, I began as an intern in the stock department, where I worked across the company’s range of products including coconut oil products and other items and materials the company uses. This role gave me valuable insights into KPSI’s operations and the importance of quality control, accountability and efficiency in managing all sort of products. Early in 2024, I transitioned into cocoa where I focused more directly on strengthening the cocoa value chain. This experience prepared me for my role as an Extension Officer and eventually as Provincial Coordinator based in Makira Province. In this position, I have the privilege of working closely with farmers, processors, and stakeholders to ensure that KPSI’s Mission translated into meaningful impact on the ground.

Highlights in Makira Province

During my time in Makira Province, I have been able to:

·     Improve the payment system, creating greater fairness and transparency for producers and processors.

·     Expand KPSI’s producer network by engaging more farmers to supply quality beans.

·     Build strong relationships with processors and farmers, fostering collaboration and trust.

·     Ensure concerns from the field are addressed and raised with KPSI for solutions.

·     Contribute to higher volumes of cocoa dry beans delivered to KPSI.

·     Strengthen partnership by liaising with other stakeholders.

·     Support producers to receive the best prices for A and B grade beans.

Challenges faced

Whilst there are many highlights in Makira, that means there are also many challenges to overcome. Low literacy levels in some rural communities made communication more difficult at times. The responsibility of managing issues and concerns could weigh heavily, even outside of work hours. Additionally, logistical limitations such as the need for a dedicated vehicle to transport cocoa from processors to the buying centre, and from shed to wharf in Makira province remained a challenge for efficiency.

Looking Ahead

Despite these challenges, my time with KPSI is both rewarding and transformative. It has strengthened my leadership building skills while deepening my passion for rural development and sustainable agriculture. Ultimately, I see my work not only as building markets but also building people.

My long-term vision is to empower communities especially the next generation of youth to see the value of their resources, embrace sustainable practices, and shape a brighter future for Solomon Islands.

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