“Kokonas Blo Yumi” – Coconuts for all of us

Kokonas blo yumi is a Pidgin term that translates to ‘coconuts for all of us’.

The coconut frond is a symbol of prosperity, symbolic of the ‘tree of life’, which is fitting given every part of the coconut harvest can be used for a range of products.

These trees are at the core of the Oshin Organics business, and our operations make use of these tropical plants to maximise sustainability and reduce waste.

The process for creating our products begins with the dehusking of coconuts.

“They are then deshelled before undergoing a process of hot0air drying the coconut meat until the moisture content is below six percent,” says Oshin Organics director Ernestine Kong. 

“The product is then removed from the dryer to be pressed into oil in an expeller.”

Leftover husks and shells are used as fuel instead of charcoal, although they can also be utilised in hydroponic nurseries. Unused coconut meal is used to feed local pigs, which works to further support communities in the area economically.

“The sticks are made into broom handles, while the fronds can be used for mats, houses, bags, placemats and, if using a young frond, can even be used in a salad.”

“Fronds are also woven into versatile recyclable baskets used to carry organic vegetables from village gardens to the markets. Alone, one frond can carry up to 15kilograms of goods.”

In a region where big business dominates, Oshin Organics is a proudly PNG-owned and run business which highly values the sustainable local production we have been able to foster.

We pay premium costs to local suppliers because we value the importance of supporting our local community, and operating with a sustainable business model.

“The region is bountiful with natural organic produce, which aids our goal to support local communities in securing food, shelter, and economic stability,” says Ernestine.

“Our participation in the Western British Province has boosted the production and distribution of coconut products worldwide, while also helping communities provide effective education about the importance of organic and natural food.”

Oshin Organics is working toward a better future for Melanesian communities by addressing the sustainable global development goals set by the UN General Assembly

“As the only business in the region that utilises downstream processing, we engage with the recycling of salvageable products and the use of natural materials.”

“We are committed to supporting and training our local employees to ensure sustainable harvesting and processing of coconuts.”

Oshin Organics collaborates closely with farmers and the local coconut industry body, Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK) to provide education about effective harvesting and replanting practices, as well as raising awareness about the coconut beetle in conjunction with the Sime Darby Research Centre. 

Oshin Organics also has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, enabling all employees to learn, train and produce.

“With a specific focus on supporting the employment of community women, we aim to grow local industry and educate on effective business practices. 

“With the aid of modern technology and a supportive work environment, we believe that anyone is capable of participating in local business with the right support.”

Oshin Organics also employs community members of all ages, supporting local grandmothers and nannies from around the province to ensure equal opportunities for everyone who seeks employment.

Through a respect of traditional knowledge and the lands of our people, we source raw materials from various small holder groups and villagers, establishing a network across the region of WNBP.

While sourcing local vegetation or bark that can be used in the production process, our staff are continuously engaging with elders to gain information on local climate conditions, which helps to ensure safe and sustainable practices to avoid negatively affecting supplies. 

We are also continuing to train the community in effective replanting procedures, and to be vigilant with managing the coconut beetle that can harm coconut trees.

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