The African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) closed its 20th anniversary celebrations and meetings in Luanda, Angola, by approving a 20-year, five-pillar strategic vision and declaration known as the five Ngomas (pillars).
At the 13th Extraordinary meeting of the ADPA Council of Ministers, which saw 14 member countries register, the Council welcomed South Africa as the incoming ADPA Chair for 2027–2028 and thanked Sierra Leone for its leadership in 2025–2026.
Botswana was also admitted as an observer member.
The first pillar, "One Voice," focuses on uniting producers around common positions and coordinated international advocacy.
The second, "One Standard," establishes the Sustainable Diamond Standard (SDS) as the benchmark for environmental stewardship, responsible sourcing, and community well-being.
The third pillar, "One Market," aims to protect consumer trust by championing clear product disclosure, stating that 4Cs grading is exclusively for natural diamonds, synthetic materials should be measured in grams and kilograms, and 'synthetic' should be the sole descriptor for lab-grown stones.
The fourth pillar, "One Intelligence," will launch an independent annual Global Diamond Market Intelligence Report.
The fifth pillar, "One Force," will synchronise marketing efforts across member states with appropriate funding.
In addition to the strategic vision, the Council approved the 2027 Annual Performance Plan and budget, the setup of a Working Group of Marketing Experts, and an annual market intelligence report.
They also approved a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed with India's Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) to train African technicians.
ADPA's member governments collectively control around 90% of the world's rough diamond production.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-in-Chief, Rough & Polished
