An additional Entomologist was recruited under the CRB-G project to be based at GPPOL (Guadalcanal Plains Palm Oil Ltd) in the Solomon Islands. His name is Mr Paul Gende. Mr Gende is a career Entomologist spanning close to 20 years working with the Cocoa and Coconut Institute (PNG CCI) based at Tavilo in the East New Britain Province.
Mr Gende spent a week with PNGOPRA Entomology Section at Dami Oil Palm Research Station from 29th July to 5th August 2018 gaining exposure to the entomology activities within the oil palm industry before moving across to GPPOL. Among other activities, most of the time during his visit was used to cover the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) management and pollinating weevil monitoring activities.
Mr Gende’s role in the project will mainly cover work on the virus (NudiVirus) control program for the beetle, but will also assist the plantation with other pest monitoring and management efforts. He will work in close collaboration with the other project team members to collectively address the CRB-G pest issue
Prior to his return, Mr Gende thanked the organization for hosting him and pledged to work closely with the team. He and his family are expected to travel across to GPPOL on the 15th August 2018.