The current debate about the significance of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is praised as both a groundbreaking ethical framework and criticised for its limitations in addressing modern challenges in the diamond trade.
In an era increasingly shaped by ethical consumerism and sustainability, the KPCS stands out as a transformative force in the global diamond trade.
Originally established to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds – those used to finance armed conflict – the KPCS has evolved into a robust multi-certification node that promotes peace, transparency and sustainable development.
Launched in 2003 as a solution for Africa in response to the devastating impact of rough diamonds used to fund wars and destabilise legitimate governments, the KPCS introduced control mechanisms to certify rough diamonds as conflict-free.
Its effectiveness is evident: conflict diamonds now account for less than 1% of the global market.
ETHICAL TRAJECTORY
Compared to other natural resource governance frameworks, such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), the KPCS demonstrates a more ethical trajectory.
Gold for example, is often linked to environmental degradation, child labour and armed groups, particularly in parts of Africa and Latin America.
Cobalt, essential for batteries, contributes to political instability and hazardous working conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Similarly, the 3T minerals (tantalum, tin, and tungsten) used in electronics are frequently extracted in conflict with no oversight or perhaps the global community chooses to ignore ongoing conflicts because of a mix of political interests, historical legacies, media bias and strategic priorities.
These decisions are rarely accidental, they reflect deeper systems of global power and selective engagement.
The significance of KPCS extends far beyond its original mandate. It has become a platform for multi-stakeholder collaboration, uniting more than 85 governments, civil society organisations and industry leaders.
It remains the only demonstrable vehicle of collaborative efficacy in the diamond industry’s global fight against conflict diamonds and the only authentic multi-certification node.
This inclusive model fosters accountability and shared responsibility, both essential for sustainable governance.
As a multi-certification node, the KPCS offers a framework – referred to as Frame 7 – that incorporates additional ethical standards, including environmental impact assessments, labour rights protections and anti-corruption protocols.
This transforms the KPCS from a single-issue tool into a multidimensional platform for responsible sourcing and ethical trading.
TRACEABILITY
In an era where consumers demand transparency, the KPCS provides traceability from mine to market.
It aligns with global sustainability frameworks such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidance and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing its role as a pillar of ethical commerce.
In contrast, initiatives like the EITI have yet to establish a comprehensive global standard for the governance of oil, gas, and other mineral resources.
The KPCS also plays a vital role in supporting local economies by legitimising the diamond trade.
It encourages responsible mining practices and helps shift the narrative from exploitation to empowerment.
Diamond-producing countries, especially in Africa, benefit from improved livelihoods, education, healthcare, infrastructure and international recognition as stable and responsible participants in global trade.
REFORMS
Despite its successes, the KPCS is undergoing a process of review and reform to enhance enforcement, broaden its scope, and modernise its practices.
This introspective evolution includes embracing digital traceability technologies, expanding the definition of conflict diamonds to include individuals and entities sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council, and strengthening diamond communities’ developmental agenda.
The KPCS is more than a regulatory mechanism, it is the gateway to ethical transformation within the diamond industry.
Its continued evolution and integration into broader sustainability efforts will define its legacy.
As global trade becomes more conscious and consumers increasingly discerning, the KPCS remains the only internationally recognised, government-backed multi-stakeholder system and sustainable multi-certification node ensuring that every diamond tells a story of dignity and ethics.
* Patric Elungu, project management professional and advocate of sustainable mining, ethical sourcing, and digitalisation as traceability for ethical trading.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
