Tender Advertisement #1018941

The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) was introduced into the Pacific Islands in 1909 from Southeast Asia; and is now posing a direct threat to the livelihoods of millions of vulnerable communities and their resilience to recover from shocks and crises. Two dominant strains of CRB are known to be present in the Pacific, and have been identified by a difference in DNA and their damaging behavior. The CRB-P strain is effectively kept under control with the virus (Oryctes nudivirus, OrNV) and the Metarhizium fungus. The newer CRB-G strain, detected in 2007, has no known viral or fungal parasite.
CRB-G was confirmed for the first time in Honiara, Solomon Islands, in January 2015; and since then has spread along the north coast of Guadalcanal and to five other islands. It is causing significant damage wherever it goes with a very high proportion of palms severely damaged or killed. In other countries 50% palm mortality in ten years has been reported. Coconut is arguably the most important plant in the country contributing significantly to export earnings and to village economies and livelihoods. Palm oil exports also contribute significantly to export earnings and employment.
The Solomon Islands Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (SIG MAL) has developed a plan to reduce Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle populations through destruction of breeding sites (rotting palm logs, rotting vegetation, compost etc.). This campaign will involve coordinating several teams of chainsaw operators and labour to help communities with the heavy work of felling dead palms, breaking up and destroying rotting palms. The work will involve activity in remote sites on infested islands. The position requires a person with experience and knowledge of the Solomon Islands; and how to move labour teams simultaneously, effectively and efficiently. Essential is knowledge and experience of engaging Solomon Island communities, coconut and oil palm industry stakeholders in both the public and private sector. The Logistics Expert will also assist in mentoring a SIG MAL Logistics Coordinator. The position will be answerable to the SIG MAL Director of Biosecurity and work from the office provided in the SIG MAL Pest Coordination Centre.