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For Nicholas, the hardwood is special, as it is consistent and lasts forever. Sapele, African Mahogany, Padouk, Wenge, Brazilian and Indian Rosewood are some varieties that go into making a whole guitar. There are many kinds of wood that go into the making of a guitar fingerboard, however, what makes Ebony special is its natural characteristics of being, durable and offering smooth acoustics. What makes this journey stand apart, is that CIB-Olam (FSC-C006439) is the only company in the world that sells FSC™ certified Ebony which is used for making guitar parts.

The majority of wood that Nicholas procures travels to China, the USA, and Europe. Other countries include Canada, Mexico, Indonesia, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, and South America. These would then get crafted into acoustic, electric, classical guitars and other instruments like ukuleles.  These instruments range from US $50 guitars made for tourists to US $150,000 guitars made for celebrities, fans and collectors.

Robert Garner, Director of ForestBased Solutions LLC, provides forest product due diligence services globally. He has been associated with CIB-Olam since 2013. Coming with an enriched global perspective on responsible forest management for over 25 years, he comments, "The combination of reputation, certification, the kind of dedication that CIB-Olam maintains in helping preserve the value chain makes it stand out unlike any other company in Africa." He adds, "The scale, the vision, its commitments to social, environmental and economic integration is a model for conducting business with a conscience."

The legendary CF Martin and Company is into its sixth generation of making musical instruments. The second oldest family-owned musical instruments business has become a global leader and it cherishes its relationship with CIB Olam. In the words of Albert Germick, the Sourcing Specialist for C. F. Martin & Co., " FSC Certified wood plays a big part in our decision to procure wood sourced from CIB-Olam, but it goes beyond the certification. We are proud to partner with CIB Olam because it is managing forests responsibly and supporting social initiatives in its communities." This February's visit to Pokola led to gifting a guitar that was made of materials coming from its concessions.