RE: Sliced a few3 Jan 2025 19:58
Your concerns about Woodbois’ debt, government relations, and local workforce challenges are valid, however we must separate fact from speculation. While Valsens posts paints a dire picture, many of the claims, such as halted operations and unpaid freight forwarders, remain unverifiable even through local news or independent sources - such as: L’Union Gabon, Gabon Review, Le Nouveau Gabon, Gabonese Ministry of Forests, CNAT (National Land Use Commission), local business associations, Global Forestry Watch, WWF, Greenpeace, freight and logistics companies, social media reports from Gabon, local employee or community testimonies. Nothing seems to turn up directly to these issues.
The lack of corroboration underscores the need for caution when interpreting such accounts. What’s clear, however, is that the company faces significant hurdles that must be addressed for any meaningful recovery.
While the path forward for Woodbois is undoubtedly challenging, Rhino’s influence and potential for strategic leadership could offer a lifeline. Resolving debt issues, rebuilding trust, and focusing on high-potential revenue streams like carbon credits are crucial steps. The land, infrastructure, and operational facilities are already in place—valuable assets that are not easy to establish. The key question now is whether they will fully develop these resources or strip them. While insight from those like Valsen could be valuable, there is always more to the story, and no one can verify it. Besides, who cares about old management and. If they are gone then opportunities knock, the situation can be turned around - and that's the gamble we're taking. I for one will be remaining steadfast amid any potential backlash from disgruntled workers stemming from previous mismanagement. We shall see what happens.