NAMIBIA says it remains committed to working closely with other African diamond-producing countries.
The country also reaffirmed its partnership with its joint venture partner, De Beers, as well as with the Global Diamond Centres and the Natural Diamond Council.
Minister of industries, mines and energy Modestus Amutse made these remarks at the Luanda Accord High level follow-up meeting yesterday, held on the sidelines of the Mining Indaba underway in South Africa.
Amutse said as partners, the countries will address the evolving challenges facing the diamond industry and advance strategies that protect and enhance the value, integrity, and reputation of natural diamonds globally.
He said the industry is not only an economic engine, it is a powerful catalyst for social development, innovation, and national pride across our continent.
“It is a privilege to address you today on behalf of the government of Namibia. As a nation deeply engaged in the natural diamond industry, we recognise both the immense opportunities and the shared responsibilities that come with Africa’s leadership role in this sector,” the minister noted.
Amuste added that Africa is the world’s leading producer of natural diamonds, accounting for the majority of global production by value and volume. He said this position confers both great responsibility and opportunity as it places Africa at the heart of the global diamond value chain.
He underscored that it is imperative for the continent to lead in shaping the future of the industry – including how natural diamonds are marketed, valued and perceived globally.
“Namibia strongly supports the development of a unified African strategy for promoting natural diamonds through the Luanda Accord,” he said. “We must move beyond fragmented messaging and present a credible, compelling narrative,
one that connects consumers to the tangible social and economic impact of natural diamonds on African communities.”
Amutse said Namibia remains resolute in championing natural diamonds as a source of national pride and sustainable development.
“Our diamond industry operates within rigorous legal and regulatory frameworks and adheres to the highest international standards, ensuring that Namibian gem-quality diamonds are ethically sourced, responsibly produced and fully compliant with global best practices,” he said.
He added that Namibia fully aligns with the urgent call for united African action in response to market disruptions since 2022.
He said these challenges demand coordinated, forward-looking solutions – not isolated or fragmented approaches.
“The time has come for African diamond-producing nations to speak with a single, powerful voice. Africa must lead in shaping a global narrative that truthfully reflects the developmental, and socio-economic value of our resources,” the minister said.
He said Namibia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the Luanda Accord and to working closely with its partners to secure a sustainable, resilient, and unified future for the natural diamond industry.
“…one that delivers lasting value for our people and safeguards the integrity of our shared heritage,” Amutse said.
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