By Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S
In a significant meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, engaged with Al Cook, Chief Executive Officer of De Beers Group. The meeting, held at the Westin Hotel’s East Pier room on the Harbour Edge Level, aimed to outline a comprehensive growth strategy for GemFair, De Beers’ innovative platform focused on promoting ethical diamond trading.
The discussions underscored the importance of building partnerships and fostering sustainable practices within Sierra Leone’s mining industry. Al Cook emphasized that GemFair was established in response to the increasing demand for ethically sourced diamonds, specifically designed to support artisanal miners by providing access to a secure and responsible marketplace. The platform prioritizes traceability and fair trade principles, enabling customers to make informed choices while benefiting local communities.
Cook shared GemFair’s expansion plans, reiterating De Beers’ commitment to supporting ethical artisanal and small-scale mining in Sierra Leone. He revealed that the company intends to sell the diamonds purchased from Sierra Leone over the past six years by 2025. Additionally, he announced ambitious initiatives to increase the number of participating miners, enhance digital infrastructure, and facilitate further training programs. The overarching goal is to empower local communities, improve labor standards, and promote environmental sustainability in the mining sector.
Describing the meeting as an excellent opportunity, Cook highlighted the need for close collaboration with the government to implement initiatives that strengthen local economies and promote ethical sourcing. He noted the importance of ensuring that diamond mining benefits all stakeholders, particularly artisanal miners who are often marginalized.
Minister Mattai expressed strong support for GemFair’s objectives, aligning them with the government’s commitment to sustainable resource management and community development. He stressed the necessity of fostering collaboration between the private sector and the government to create a transparent mining environment that honors local communities’ rights while driving economic growth.
The two leaders discussed potential strategies for integrating GemFair into national mining policies. These strategies include advocating for regulatory frameworks that benefit artisanal and small-scale miners, improving access to training and resources, and emphasizing the significance of ethical sourcing in the global marketplace. Cook and Minister Mattai agreed to continue their discussions to solidify a partnership that prioritizes social responsibility and sustainability throughout the diamond supply chain. This collaboration promises to pave the way for a more equitable future in Sierra Leone’s diamond industry.
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