Second Zimbabwe Diamond Conference to discuss Zimbabwean diamond industry challenges

Industry experts will present three panel discussions
Second Zimbabwe Diamond Conference to discuss Zimbabwean diamond industry challenges

Three panel discussions focusing on different aspects of the challenges facing the Zimbabwean diamond industry, as well as the wider global diamond trade, have been outlined as part of the agenda at the Second Zimbabwe Diamond Conference.

The seminar sessions will each feature experts in the area of discussion and aim to stimulate debate among the African and global diamond industry participants. The first panel discussion is entitled 'From Zimbabwean Mines To The World' and will feature Dr. Robert Mhlanga, Chairman Mbada Diamonds (Private) Ltd; Mr. Farai Mutamangira, Legal Advisor, Ministry of Mines and Mining Development of Zimbabwe; and Mr. Mark Van Bockstael, Chairman of the Working Group on Diamond Experts (WGDE). The second panel is called 'Diamonds: Engine Of Local Beneficiation', will include panel members - Mr. Abbey Chikane, the First Chair of the Kimberley Process; Mr. Richard Mvududu, Chairperson, Diamond Beneficiation Association of Zimbabwe; Ms. Christine Gordon, Former UN Panel Expert on Angola; Prof. Francis Gudyanga, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Mines and Mining Development of Zimbabwe; Mr. Shamiso Mtisi, KP Civil Society Coalition Representative in Zimbabwe; and Mr. Tafadzwa Musarara, Resources Exploitation Watch.

The second day will include a panel debate on 'Complementarities Between The OECD Due Diligence For Responsible Mineral Supply Chains And the KPCS'. Panel members are Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director GJEPC; Mr. Paulo M’Vika, Chairman, Working Group of Artisanal and Alluvial Producers (WGAAP); Mr. Peter Meeus, Chairman of the Dubai Diamond Exchange; Mr. Tyler Gillard, Legal Expert, OECD Investment Division; Mr. Kennedy Hamutenya, Diamond Commissioner, Republic of Namibia; and Mr. Levy Rapoo, CEO, South African Diamonds and Precious Metals Regulator. All sessions will be moderated by diamond industry expert Chaim Even-Zohar.

The conference, organized by Zimbabwe's Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, in Harare, will focus on the theme 'Completing Zimbabwe’s Diamond Potential for the Future' and aims to present the progress made by the country's diamond trade following its admission as a member of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in 2011. The Conference is slated from November 6-7 and is expected to be attended by African mining ministers. Zimbabwe's Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Walter K. Chidakwa, will address the conference on behalf of the Zimbabwean government. In addition, global diamond industry leaders will deliver keynote speeches at the conference.

"This is an opportunity for representatives of government, civil society and diamond industry organizations to get a detailed understanding of the issues affecting our domestic diamond industry, but also of the wider diamond business," said Prof. Francis Gudyanga.


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