Ghana has called for incremental reforms to the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) to better protect diamond‑mining communities from exploitation and marginalization. Speaking at a ministerial meeting in Dubai, Sammy Gyamfi, CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, stressed that the scheme, originally designed to curb “conflict diamonds” funding wars, must evolve to address modern forms of economic and social harm.
Gyamfi noted that while the Kimberley Process has successfully reduced diamonds funding armed conflicts, many mining communities still suffer from land dispossession, unfair labor practices, and exclusion from benefits. He argued that the current definition of “conflict diamonds” is too narrow, overlooking systemic abuses by corporate and state actors.
Ghana is advocating for practical, gradual reforms that enhance accountability and transparency without overcomplicating the system. Key proposals include:
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Expanding the definition of conflict diamonds to include cases of economic exploitation and human rights abuses.
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Strengthening traceability so diamonds can be tracked from mine to market, ensuring ethical sourcing.
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Increasing accountability for governments and companies involved in diamond extraction, particularly regarding the treatment of local communities.
Gyamfi emphasized that these changes do not require radical overhauls but should focus on achievable steps that protect vulnerable populations and ensure fair practices in the industry.
Civil society groups and industry stakeholders have welcomed Ghana’s proposals, noting that the Kimberley Process needs to adapt to contemporary challenges, including human rights violations and environmental damage, which the current framework does not adequately address.
By pushing for these reforms, Ghana aims to ensure that the Kimberley Process remains a relevant and effective tool for promoting ethical mining practices while safeguarding the rights and dignity of diamond-producing communities.
Source: Thepressradio.com
