Tanzania has emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in adding value to diamonds, strengthening transparency in mineral resource governance, and enhancing the contribution of the mining sector to the economic development of member countries of the African Diamond Producers Association (African Diamond Producers Association).
This position was highlighted on May 19, 2026, in Freetown, Sierra Leone, by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Minerals, Msafiri Mbibo, who is leading Tanzania’s delegation to the 11th Ordinary Meeting of the Committee of Experts of the association.
The meeting brings together experts from member states of African Diamond Producers Association to discuss key issues aimed at strengthening governance, trade, and development of the diamond sector across Africa.
The discussions focused on improving coordination among producing countries to ensure that diamond resources contribute more effectively to national economies and citizens’ welfare.
During the session, delegates reviewed the annual report of the ADPA Executive Director for 2025, examined the implementation of the 2025 budget, and considered financial statements for the same year. They also reviewed the external audit report covering the 2023–2024 financial period.
The meeting further discussed institutional governance matters, including debt waiver issues, updates on the risk register, institutional capacity development, and the association’s progress toward membership in the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
These matters were aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and global credibility.
Participants also received updates on preparations for the upcoming Diamond Conference and the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of African Diamond Producers Association.
Other agenda items included the review of communication and marketing strategies, implementation of internal audit recommendations for 2023–2025, and proposals for a performance management policy to strengthen institutional effectiveness.
Tanzania reaffirmed that stronger regional cooperation is key to ensuring African diamond-producing countries move beyond exporting raw minerals and instead increase value addition within the continent.
This approach, it noted, will help boost revenues, create jobs, and improve the competitiveness of the sector in global markets.
