The Luanda Accord: Uniting for Natural Diamond Marketing and Industry Growth

The Luanda Accord has successfully held its second major gathering at the African Mining Indaba 2026, marking a significant advancement in the collaborative effort to globally promote natural diamonds. This initiative, spearheaded by the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), brings together key stakeholders from diamond-producing nations and the industry at large, all committed to sustained investment in the sector's integrity and market presence. The recent meeting saw the formal inclusion of Namibia, a major diamond producer, and outlined clear pathways for other prominent industry bodies to join the NDC, reinforcing a unified vision for the future of natural diamonds.

Namibia's official accession to the Luanda Accord is a pivotal development. Following initial expressions of support and the completion of necessary governmental approvals, Namibia now joins Angola, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo as a signatory. This commitment entails a financial contribution towards global marketing efforts for natural diamonds, aligning with the Accord's foundational principles. Given Namibia's century-long history in diamond production and its position as the world's fifth-largest producer by value, its involvement is expected to significantly amplify the Accord's impact. The diamond industry has been a cornerstone of Namibia's economy, providing employment, supporting communities, and funding essential public services such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Honourable Modestus Amutse, Namibia's Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, emphasized the country's dedication to preserving the narrative of natural diamonds and ensuring the continued benefits for its citizens. Amber Pepper, CEO of the NDC, lauded Namibia's decision as a strong indicator of leadership, highlighting the importance of collective action in maintaining the appeal and value of natural diamonds. She underscored how Namibia's participation enhances the ability to effectively communicate the positive societal impact of the natural diamond industry.

Further advancing this collaborative agenda, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and the NDC formalized a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement outlines a framework for GJEPC to achieve full NDC membership by May 1, 2026, contingent on financial and regulatory alignments. This move is particularly significant as India, where GJEPC is based, plays a central role in the global diamond value chain, from cutting and polishing to a rapidly expanding consumer market. Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman of GJEPC, stressed the importance of collaboration, transparency, and a shared commitment to building consumer confidence. Amber Pepper reiterated the value of this deepened partnership in reaching new generations of consumers with clear and compelling information about natural diamonds.

Concurrently, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), a major global diamond trading hub, signed a Letter of Intent to become an NDC member by the same deadline. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, articulated the center's commitment to supporting the diamond trading community and fostering the industry's sustained growth and stability. He acknowledged the crucial role African producing nations play and pledged to ensure that the value generated from these resources contributes to economic progress in their originating countries and communities. DMCC aims to promote a transparent and competitive diamond sector by connecting production with international markets through Dubai.

These converging efforts signify a momentous stride for the Luanda Accord and the NDC, reinforcing their shared mission to uphold the integrity, desirability, and lasting value of natural diamonds worldwide. The Accord's signatories and the NDC are actively encouraging all participants across the entire diamond value chain—from mining operations and traders to manufacturers and retailers—to support this vital initiative. A unified vision, coupled with sustained investment in fostering consumer demand, is recognized as indispensable for securing the future prosperity of the natural diamond industry.