Vice President Mohadi officially opens KPCS meeting
Story by Tichaona Kurewa
OFFICIALLY opening the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) plenary meeting in Victoria Falls this Wednesday, Vice President Kembo Mohadi pledged the government’s commitment to growing the mining sector and comply with the dictates of KPCS.
“Zimbabwe has faced its challenges in the Kimberley Process. However, we are proud of the growth we have had in the past decade. This has culminated in the Chairmanship we have witnessed in 2023, this is a vote of confidence that the Kimberley Process has in our abilities. The Government of Zimbabwe will continue to create an enabling environment for mining companies to work in a business-friendly environment. As World Diamond Council, President part of the Government of Zimbabwe’s initiatives for continued compliance with the Kimberley Process, we have a vibrant Kimberley Process Technical Committee composed of the three pillars of the Kimberley Process. Our civil society organisations have a voice through this setup, having access to engage Government and diamond industry players,” he said.
Zimbabwe commended the KPCS for its efforts in restoring order in the extraction of the gems on the continent with Africa contributing at least 65% of rough diamonds.
He added, “We are all aware the Kimberley Process was established with the ultimate goal of eliminating conflict diamonds in the rough diamonds supply chain. It is pleasing to note that the organisation has achieved this with control of 99.8% of the global diamond supply. This is a remarkable feat which is commended. The Kimberley Process has contributed to the ending of conflicts fuelled by mineral resources in Africa. The importance of the Kimberley Process cannot be understated and the positive lasting legacy it has created. We hope that the organisation continues to pursue its mandate.”
The KPCS reminded member countries to be in sync with international best practices for the industry to flourish.
“The diamond industry’s terrain is always evolving, and it is necessary to adapt to new realities. The Kimberley Process is the appropriate organisation to assure the diamond industry’s continued coexistence,” said KPCS Chair and Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Winston Chitando.
The World Diamond Council took the opportunity to pledge its support to the global watchdog.
“As the President of the World Diamond Council, I want to emphasize our commitment to the KP Family and the diamond industry. We take our responsibilities very seriously and recognize the critical role of the KPCS as a foundation for responsible sourcing and ethical trade of diamonds, with this dedication in mind, we stand ready to participate fully and provide technical assistance where possible to ensure the smooth functioning of the KP,” said World Diamond Council President, Mrs Feriel Zerouki.
With a commitment to remove conflict diamonds from the global supply chain, the KPCS is this year celebrating 20 years of existence with Zimbabwe being the chair.
