Mali's Diamond Industry Aims for Formalization by 2031

The Conseil national des professionnels du diamant au Mali (CNPDM) has set ambitious goals for the country's diamond industry, aiming to obtain exploitation titles, reduce diamond export timelines to under seven days, and maintain Mali's position within the Kimberley Process by 2031. These objectives were announced during the organization's ordinary general assembly in Bamako. The CNPDM also plans to establish a diamond cutting center in Bamako and formalize 1,000 artisanal miners.

The CNPDM's outgoing president, Bakary Koïta, emphasized the importance of transparency and credibility in the organization's management. He stated that the success of the council depends on the effective involvement of its members. The organization's goals are crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the Malian diamond sector, including difficulties in obtaining exploitation titles, justifying the origin of diamonds, and ensuring their traceability.

One of the significant challenges facing the sector is the lengthy certification process for diamond lots intended for export. According to Zoumana Touré, the president of the organization committee, this process can take over a month, compared to less than a week in some other countries. This delay can compromise Mali's position within the Kimberley Process, which aims to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds.

Amadou Sanoussi Dafé, president of the Confédération nationale des sociétés coopératives des orpailleurs du Mali, advocated for the formalization of the sector and proposed cooperation with the CNPDM in areas such as training, cooperative structuring, and dialogue with public authorities. The representative of the minister in charge of Commerce and Industry, Soumaïla Siby, assured that his department is willing to support initiatives that promote the diamond sector.

The CNPDM was established in 2018 to bring together actors in the diamond sector, which faces challenges related to exploitation, traceability, and commercialization. Since 2014, the organization has been working to develop alluvial diamond mining in Yanfolila and Kéniéba. The CNPDM's efforts aim to improve the sector's structure and ensure that it contributes significantly to Mali's economy.

To achieve its objectives, the CNPDM plans to organize an international diamond salon in Mali, which will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss industry issues and promote Malian diamonds. The organization also aims to create a more favorable business environment by engaging with authorities and partners to address the challenges facing the sector.

The success of the CNPDM's initiatives will depend on the collaboration of its members and the support of relevant authorities. Key stakeholders, including government representatives and industry players, have expressed their commitment to working together to promote the growth and formalization of Mali's diamond sector.

Key points

• Formalization of 1,000 artisanal miners is targeted by 2031.
• Reducing diamond export timelines to under seven days is a priority.
• Establishing a diamond cutting center in Bamako is part of the CNPDM's plans.