Horticulturist, Samoa

Summary about this job

Detail information about job Horticulturist, Samoa. Terms and conditions vacancy

• Looking for a new adventure?
• 1 year long volunteering assignment in Samoa - costs covered
• Personal and professional development opportunity

Put your great Horticulture knowledge and experience to use in Samoa! Work alongside the Coconut Farmers Association to develop sustainable and profitable Fairtrade certified organic coconuts. The association’s aim is to revive the export coconut cream industry in Samoa while increasing their members’ incomes.

Savai’i Coconut Farmers Association (SCFA) is located in the rainforest of Savai’i. They have pioneered Fairtrade certification within Samoa. SCFA delivers a range of services in partnership with their buyers, Krissy Co. These services include training on farming methods, record keeping and social compliance.  SCFA is a smallholder producer organisation with 121 members. The key challenge that this organisation faces is sustainability in the agricultural production of coconut trees. A concern is that there are lower numbers of coconut trees being replanted. While measures are being taken in monitoring this, member farmers are in need of help to strengthen the replanting programme.

As the ideal candidate, you are required to promote a more business-minded approach to farming. This assignment will also focus on encouraging youth into a replanting mind-set. You will be responsible for the design and implementation of a replanting programme for members that addresses soil fertility issues, low yields, and ageing trees. This programme will also encourage members to be actively engaged in the sustainability of their businesses. You will also engage in training with practices such as composting.

Another focus area will be business management capacity. Specifically, the strengthening of administration processes to strengthen the operations of SCFA. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the capacity building of SCFA Leadership Team in developing SCFA into a strong and stable business.

We are looking for a volunteer with:

• Experience in small business management (particularly farming or horticulture)
• Experience in facilitation and training
• Experience working in soil fertility and crop production
• Experience using organic farming practices and knowledge of composting

This is an 1-year assignment based in Samoa. 

About Volunteering with VSA

VSA is New Zealand's largest and most experienced volunteering agency working in international development. 

We cover living allowances, accommodation and utilities. Travel, visas, insurance and medical costs are organised and funded by VSA.

Volunteers must be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.

If current VSA assignments don't suit your skills and experience you can register your interest with us and we'll let you know when something in your field is available.

How to Apply

To visit this job profile on our website and download an assignment description please click 'apply for this job' below.