Angola has made a definitive mark on the international diamond landscape. Its two leading state-owned enterprises, ENDIAMA E.P. and SODIAM E.P., have officially joined the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) as contributing members, with their participation effective from July 1, 2025.

This development underscores Angola’s growing commitment to not only responsible diamond production but also to the strategic global promotion of natural diamonds. As the world’s third-largest diamond producer by volume and one of the most promising regions for new discoveries, Angola is stepping into a more visible leadership role in the industry.

“With Angola’s diamond industry on the rise, promoting the values and socioeconomic contributions of natural diamonds is a national priority,” said Diamantino Azevedo, Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas. “By joining the Natural Diamond Council, Endiama and Sodiam are formalizing our dedication to a global strategy that highlights the unmatched benefits of natural diamonds to new generations of consumers.”

The membership comes with a significant commitment: $8 million dedicated to global category marketing in the second half of 2025. This investment will support outreach during the industry’s most commercially vital season, ensuring Angola’s voice is firmly embedded in the narrative that celebrates natural diamonds’ rarity, authenticity, and positive impact.

In a show of industry solidarity, founding NDC member De Beers has announced it will match the $8 million contribution from ENDIAMA and SODIAM, further strengthening the Council’s shared mission.

“We are thrilled to welcome ENDIAMA and SODIAM at such a transformative time,” said David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council. “Their voice and commitment will further enrich our mission of promoting the powerful story of natural diamonds, grounded in community impact and enduring value.”

Reinforcing the Role of Africa in Diamond Storytelling

ENDIAMA and SODIAM’s membership also reaffirms Africa’s central role in the global diamond story—not only as a producer, but as a storyteller and strategic influencer. Through the NDC’s platforms and marketing efforts, Angola will help shape how today’s and tomorrow’s consumers understand and connect with natural diamonds.

“Diamonds are more than luxury—they’re cultural, emotional, and economic symbols,” said Richa Singh, Managing Director of NDC India & Middle East. “Welcoming ENDIAMA and SODIAM to the NDC strengthens our shared commitment to inspire and educate consumers, helping them make informed choices rooted in authenticity and positive impact.”

About ENDIAMA and SODIAM

Founded in 1981, ENDIAMA is Angola’s national diamond company, responsible for managing the state’s interests across the diamond sector. While mining remains its core focus, the company is actively expanding across the value chain—partnering with international firms in cutting, polishing, and jewellery manufacturing. ENDIAMA’s strategic diversification includes gold refining and nurturing a national jewellery industry, positioning Angola as a future luxury and value-added market hub.

SODIAM, meanwhile, manages the marketing and sale of Angola’s rough diamonds, ensuring transparency, traceability, and fair value. With a strong focus on beneficiation and local value addition, SODIAM plays a pivotal role in connecting Angola’s production to the global market.

Together, these institutions embody Angola’s broader vision: transforming its natural resources into lasting, sustainable development—particularly in producing regions through employment, education, infrastructure, and healthcare.

A Collective Future for Natural Diamonds

With this move, ENDIAMA and SODIAM join an elite group of NDC members including De Beers, Okavango Diamond Company, Petra Diamonds, Rio Tinto, and Murowa. Their addition marks a new chapter in the Council’s ongoing efforts to present a unified, global message about the enduring value and positive contribution of natural diamonds.