2 Traditional Methods of Dehusking the Coconut
2.1 Dehusking Coconut Using a Machete
The coconut husk, also known as the coir, has become a very useful substance in light of today’s environmental
and economic concerns. It can be used for repelling mosquitoes when burnt, if shredded, can used as pillows,
mattresses and to provide the fibre for making clothing, to make filters for aquariums, the fibre can now be used
in place of synthetic fibre for making automobile parts and as fuel. However the current traditional methods
employed for dehusking the coconut leaves much to be desired. Fig. 4 shows one of the traditional methods of
dehusking coconut using a machete. This is done by using human energy. This method is risky and tedious and
yet requires skills. The use of the machete poses a great danger to the worker.