Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL), an oil palm company operating in Sinoe County, has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and community welfare. This pledge came in light of recent allegations regarding its adherence to environmental and social standards. Management emphasizes that they take these responsibilities seriously and are willing to investigate any claims that their commitments are unmet. They believe these allegations are misleading and have actively engaged with media to clarify their position on environmental practices and community engagement.
GVL’s environmental strategy includes adhering to its Concession Agreement and the Principles and Criteria set forth by the Roundtable on Sustainable Oil Palm (RSPO). The company asserts its commitment to safeguarding water sources and ensuring access to safe drinking water for local communities. GVL submits to independent audits of its environmental performance, which are mandated by the Environmental Permit it received from the Liberian government. These annual audits, including the latest Environmental Audit Reports (EAR) submitted in May 2024, help identify risks and recommend strategies to mitigate environmental impacts. GVL claims to actively implement these recommendations, cooperating with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address highlighted issues.
In terms of community engagement, GVL has detailed commitments outlined in Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) established with local groups. One significant aspect of these agreements is the construction and maintenance of hand pumps for clean water access. To date, GVL has constructed over 40 hand pumps and rehabilitated an additional 70 in six communities, often exceeding its initial obligations. Nonetheless, the company acknowledges community feedback regarding maintenance issues with some pumps, indicating a need for clearer responsibilities in maintenance and expressing intentions to renegotiate MoUs to improve these processes.
GVL’s commitment to community welfare also extends to education. The company actively engages local communities through meetings and collaborations with community representatives. It contributes to a Community Development Fund (CDF), which supports various development projects, including the construction of a modern teachers’ residence and town halls, set to commence in the last quarter of 2024. Additionally, GVL recently completed the building of a three-classroom elementary school in the Wiah-Doe community, benefiting over 200 schoolchildren. This initiative forms part of GVL’s broader educational support program, aimed at addressing the needs of both employees’ dependents and children from surrounding areas.
Employment practices at GVL prioritize local hiring, as outlined in its MoUs, which stipulate that local citizens are given preference for job opportunities. Currently, an impressive 90% of GVL’s workforce at its various estates comprises individuals from local communities, including crucial roles in decision-making processes. While the company is committed to local employment, all hiring and promotional decisions are based on merit and qualifications, ensuring that the most suitable candidates fill positions, regardless of background. Notably, one GVL estate is fully managed by a team of Liberian nationals, showcasing the company’s efforts to develop local talent and capabilities.
In conclusion, GVL emphasizes its dedication to environmentally sustainable practices and robust community engagement through various initiatives, such as educational support and job creation for local citizens. While acknowledging challenges related to community feedback, the company seems poised to address these concerns through transparent dialogue and revisions to their agreements with local stakeholders. Their ongoing commitment to independent environmental audits, community infrastructure projects, and prioritizing local employment reflects a comprehensive approach to contributing positively to the communities in which they operate. GVL’s management remains resolute in navigating the complexities of balancing operational success with environmental and social responsibilities.
