Published by the government of Zimbabwe
Martin Kadzere
30 July 2009
Harare — THE Kimberly Process Certification Scheme wants Zimbabwe to be suspended from importing or exporting rough diamonds for at least six months.
An interim report by the KP team has recommended Zimbabwe to stop diamond trade within the KPCS until the country meets minimum standards.
A Kimberley Process team was in the country early this month to investigate allegations of non-compliance.
Government has acknowledged non-compliance with the KP minimum standards in its July 14 response but was silent on voluntary suspension.
The group recommended "initiation of procedure to implement suspension of Zimbabwe from importing or exporting of rough diamonds within the KPCS for a period of at least six months, but until such time as a KP team determines that minimum standards have been met."
Last week, Finance Minister Tendai Biti pleaded with the organisation to give Zimbabwe a chance to correct its wrongs before taking action.
He said revenues, that could range between US$400 million and US$600 million per month if the gem is fully exploited could fund most of the country's reconstruction, estimated at US$8,3 billion.
Government, according to the report was willing to comply and has requested for technical assistance, including the provision of advice of the independent multi-stakeholder body and the special rapporteur.
A "gradual approach to the demilitarisation" of the diamond fields, including increased oversight of the Zimbabwe National Army and the Zimbabwe Republic Police activities have also been proposed.
The report noted suspension of diamond trade would ensure effective security systems and internal control measures are in place in a manner that indicate Zimbabwe's control and authority over the Marange fields.
It has been noted that lack of security around the diamonds fields in Marange areas had led to illegal mining and processing activities.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Obert Mpofu said Government would deal with the matter when the final report is complete.
The Kimberley Process, which oversees trade in conflict-free diamonds, is expected to present its final report to the Government soon.
Be the first to Write a Comment!
Copyright © 2009 The Herald. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.
AllAfrica aggregates and indexes content from over 125 African news organizations, plus more than 200 other sources, who are responsible for their own reporting and views. Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica.
