Introduction
My name is Ángela Domitila Chamorro Rodríguez, and at 59 years old, I am proud to be a leading example in my community of Los Cinco, located in the municipality of Kukra Hill, in the South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (RACCS). My journey in coconut farming began in 2016, and it has been a story of perseverance, innovation, and community leadership.
The Beginning
In 2016, I embarked on my coconut farming venture by planting 3.87 hectares of Brazilian Green Dwarf coconuts. The genetics were sourced from an NGO called FADCANIC, which financed me at $6 per plant plus transportation. The success of this planting was largely due to the knowledge of my son, who had experience working with African palm trees. He reassured me, saying, "Mama, coconut is the same as palm, and we are going to plant it this way."
Overcoming Skepticism
Initially, my neighbors thought I was crazy for planting coconuts. They laughed and urged me to cut them down and raise cattle instead. They believed that buyers preferred Indian (creole) and hybrid coconuts over the variety I had planted. Despite the skepticism, I persisted, driven by a vision for the future.
Partnership with Sol Organica
In September 2019, a representative from Sol Organica. visited me and explained their coconut project, including the benefits, price, requirements, and export varieties. At first, the proposal seemed illogical to many of us, as we were accustomed to immediate payment upon delivery. However, I saw potential in the project and decided to give it a try.
In December 2019, I delivered 642 coconuts to test the waters. By April 2020, under new management, I sent my second load of 1,104 fruits. As time passed, I saw that my coconut plants were thriving, and I began asking for business references from other producers. By the end of the year, I was working with more confidence.
Early Harvests and Expansion
The first harvests began in 2019, and I sold dry coconuts for 3 córdobas each. To boost the industry, I started making nurseries and sold plants to acquaintances for 5 córdobas, encouraging them to invest for the future. Coconut farming was a more economical option compared to the African palm trees being planted by Cukra Development in the municipality.
Benefits and Achievements
Working with Sol Organica brought numerous benefits. They opened a bank account for me, provided a card, technical assistance, and organized talks about cultivation. They supervised the cuts, planned collection days, and explained each delivery in a formal manner. From 2021 onwards, I started sending more coconuts and equipped myself with the right tools to work comfortably.
In 2023, I carried out the second planting of 3.78 hectares, combining hybrid and pure varieties to cater to both dry and water coconut markets. In 2024, I planted 7.69 hectares of the water variety, Brazilian Green Dwarf, and expand further in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
Currently, I almost fill half a trailer with coconuts, and every time the truck parks in front of my house, I feel proud of my achievements. Within three years, I aim to send a whole trailer to the factory by myself.
My journey in coconut farming has been one of resilience and growth. From being the only producer in my community to becoming a trusted supplier for Sol Organica., I have seen the benefits of hard work and innovation. I look forward to expanding my farm and continuing to contribute to the prosperity of my community.