KP shifts goalposts on Zim visit

the body’s secretariat and led by the KP chair, Mr Mathius Yamba, was initially expected in the country last week.
However, investigations by The Herald Business have revealed that the KPCS has requested the Zimbabwean Government to exclude newly appointed co-monitor of the Marange diamonds, Mr Mark Van Bockstael.

The move to exclude Mr Van Bockstael is largely viewed as a ploy by the KPCS to hinder the certification of the Marange diamonds as the visit was also expected to result in the joint venture between Government and a Chinese firm, Anjin Investments receiving KP certification.

The KP plans to reconstitute its delegation to include three experts from participating countries in Africa, one expert from a participant in Asia and Oceania, one expert from a participant in Europe and the Americas, one observer representing the industry, and seven observers representing civil society.

MORE ON ZIMBABWE DIAMONDS

The local diamond sector has however, questioned the somewhat inflated size of the delegation given the task at hand.
Meanwhile, Mines and Mining Development Minister Obert Mpofu told delegates at the recently ended Zimbabwe Mining Indaba that the Government is drafting a diamond policy that will be factored on beneficiation of the local gems.

He said at least 10 percent of local diamonds should be set aside for beneficiation.
At the same event, Minister Mpofu also hinted that the country’s diamond sector continues to attract huge interest from foreign investors with over 400 applications received so far.