By: Joseph Momoh, Reporter
The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, is representing Sierra Leone at the 2024 Kimberley Process Plenary Meeting in Dubai. This high-level gathering, taking place from November 12 to 15 at the JAFZA Conference Center, convenes key stakeholders from diamond-producing countries and global industry leaders to discuss the future of the diamond trade and address critical sector issues.
In preparation for this significant event, Deputy Minister Koroma chaired a meeting of the African Diamond Producing Countries (ADPC) to establish a unified stance on key matters to be addressed during the plenary. This year’s discussions will focus on the ongoing conflict in the Central African Republic (CAR), where African nations aim to present a joint position on managing the challenges posed by conflict diamonds originating from the region.
Established in 2003, the Kimberley Process is a global initiative designed to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds—those sold by rebel groups to finance insurgencies against legitimate governments. This framework has significantly improved transparency and accountability in the global diamond supply chain. Sierra Leone, once notorious for its own history of conflict diamonds during its civil war, has played a crucial role in the Kimberley Process, actively contributing to efforts to eliminate the illicit trade.
Deputy Minister Koroma’s participation underscores the country’s commitment to upholding the principles of the Kimberley Process and fostering a sustainable, conflict-free diamond industry. The plenary will serve as a platform for member states to discuss key issues, share best practices, and explore new strategies to enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the certification scheme.
As Africa remains a major source of the world’s diamonds, representatives from the continent are expected to advocate for stronger regulatory measures, improved transparency, and a greater focus on conflict resolution in regions like CAR, where diamond-related conflicts continue to hinder peace and development. The outcomes of the Kimberley Process Plenary Meeting will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the diamond industry, as member countries collaborate to ensure that diamonds contribute to economic growth and stability, free from the taint of conflict.
