Bakary Koïta Reappointed to Lead Mali's Diamond Council for 2026-2031 Term

Bakary Koïta has been reappointed to head Mali's National Council of Diamond Professionals (CNPDM) for a five-year term from 2026 to 2031. The reappointment took place at the organisation's ordinary general assembly in Bamako's ACI 2000 district. The CNPDM aims to strengthen the diamond sector's structure and improve conditions for mining and marketing.

The council has set several goals for the new term, including securing mining permits and reducing export certification delays to under seven days. Another key objective is establishing a cutting centre in Bamako, which will help formalise the sector. The CNPDM also plans to organise an International Diamond Fair of Mali and preserve the country's place within the Kimberley Process.

Koïta emphasised that the council's success relies on the active involvement of its members. He called for transparency in management and urged members to strengthen the organisation's credibility with authorities and partners. This comes as the sector faces challenges, including difficulties in accessing mining permits and lengthy certification delays for export-bound lots.

Zoumana Touré, president of the organising committee, highlighted the complications arising from difficulties in accessing mining permits. These challenges make it hard to justify the origin of diamonds and ensure their traceability. Touré also noted that certification delays for export-bound lots can exceed one month, compared to less than a week in some other countries.

Amadou Sanoussi Dafé, president of the National Confederation of Artisanal Miners' Cooperative Societies of Mali, advocated for formalising the sector. He proposed cooperation with the CNPDM on training, structuring cooperatives, and dialogue with public authorities. The CNPDM was created in 2018 and brings together stakeholders in the sector.

Soumaïla Siby, representing the Minister of Commerce and Industry, assured the department's readiness to support initiatives in favour of the sector. The CNPDM has undertaken efforts to develop alluvial diamond mining in Yanfolila and Kéniéba since 2014. The organisation aims to formalise 1,000 artisans during the new term.

The reappointment of Bakary Koïta and the CNPDM's goals are seen as steps towards improving Mali's diamond sector. The council's success will depend on effective collaboration between its members, authorities, and partners.

Key points

• The CNPDM aims to formalise 1,000 artisans and establish a cutting centre in Bamako during the 2026-2031 term.
• The council seeks to reduce export certification delays to under seven days and preserve Mali's place within the Kimberley Process.
• Koïta called for transparency in management and strengthening the organisation's credibility with authorities and partners.