· Diamonds are targeted to contribute $1 billion of the total mining target's $12 billion
· Zimbabwe has taken over as the new Chair of the African Diamond Producers Association
· The role placed on Zimbabwe is likely to propel country’s the Diamond mining activity
Harare-Zimbabwe has taken over as the new Chair of the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA), a move that is likely to reactivate the diamond mining sector and possibly deliver economic growth. Zimbabwe's chairmanship of the ADPA presents a unique opportunity for the country to lead the way in shaping the future of African diamond mining, promoting sustainable practices, and boosting its economic growth.
The bloc comprises of 19 countries that mine and produce diamond in Africa. This announcement came after the Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando took over from Tanzania in the role recently. The outgoing ADPA chair and the Tanzanian Minister of Minerals, Mr Doto Bikero, chaired the grouping in 2022 and were deputized by Minister Chitando, who is the current chair.
Also, Zimbabwe hosted the ADPA 8th Ordinary Meeting of Experts and the Meeting of the Council of Ministers, where President Mnangagwa formally opened the occasion. This gathering coincided with the finalization of the appointment of the ADPA executive secretariat and the adoption of the ADPA core documents, critical developments for the future of the organization.
The Zimbabwean diamond sector has grown rapidly, and the country targets almost seven million carats by the end of 2023, maintaining its position as one of the fastest-growing industries in Zimbabwe. Mining contributes significantly to the Zimbabwean economy; it is the strategic mineral targeted to contribute US$1 billion to the total US$12 billion mining industry in Zimbabwe by the end of this year.
Minister Chitando emphasized the need for the diamond sector to evolve with the changes in the global landscape. He challenged member states to ensure that African states are not left behind as demands for sustainably sourced minerals continue to take center stage.
With at least 75 percent of diamonds mined in Africa, sustainable mining practices will have a greater impact within the continent. The minister hopes that the ADPA plays a role in the implementation of FRAME 7 on Supporting Principles for Responsible Diamond Sourcing as best practices, which will ensure that African diamonds meet the needs of consumers for sustainably sourced diamonds.
As the new chair of ADPA, Zimbabwe is expected to continue with programming around the sector's success and development, building on the work done by Tanzania. Thus, it is imperative for member states to pay their membership fees and approve the new membership fee framework.
The Zimbabwean diamond industry's success lies in striking a balance between meeting consumer demands for sustainably sourced diamonds and contributing significantly to the country's economy.
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