adminthe major players in the diamond industry converge on Harare. It comes at a time when figures from the Ministry of Finance show that diamond revenue fell below expectations during the first half of the year.
According to the Accountant General’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Performance for the second quarter ending June 30, the non-tax revenue from the gems stood at US$11 million compared to the projected US$148 million.
However, mining royalties surpassed projections by US$7 million as Government realised US$51 million against a target of US$44 million.
Secretary for Mines and Mining Development Mr Prince Mupazviriho, said the conference would also explore ways of adding value to the country’s diamonds.
“This conference is the first of its kind as it seeks to improve the operations of our diamond industry. We are hopeful that the meeting will improve every aspect of the sector, especially marketing,” he said.
Mr Mupazviriho added that the conference would attract several international players in the diamond sector and members of the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS).
Some of the participants expected to grace the conference include World Diamond Council chairman Mr Eli Izhakoff, KP monitor Mr Abbey Chikane and Mr Peter Meeus, who is the chairman of the Dubai Diamond Exchange.
“As a member of the KPCS, the conference will enable us to exchange views and share information on the burning issues in the diamond sector,” said Mr Mupazviriho. — Sunday Mail.
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