The Luanda Accord held its second high-level meeting at the African Mining Indaba 2026, marking an expansion of collective action in support of global generic marketing for natural diamonds, led by the Natural Diamond Council (NDC).
The Accord brings together diamond-producing governments and industry stakeholders committed to sustained investment in protecting and promoting the natural diamond category. Its inaugural meeting took place in June 2025, with participation from producing countries and leaders across the global natural diamond value chain.
The Government of the Republic of Namibia formally became a signatory to the Luanda Accord, joining Angola, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of Congo. By signing, Namibia commits to supporting the natural diamond industry through an agreed contribution to global category marketing in alignment with the principles of the Luanda Accord. The announcement follows Namibia’s expression of strong support in principle at the first Luanda Accord meeting and the subsequent completion of all required governmental authorisations.
With a diamond industry dating back to 1908, Namibia is today the fifth largest diamond producer in the world by value and home to a significant diamond cutting and polishing industry. For decades, diamonds have been a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy, generating employment, supporting local communities and providing vital government revenue that has funded infrastructure, healthcare, and education for the people of Namibia.
Honourable Modestus Amutse, Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia, said: “Natural diamonds have helped shape Namibia’s economic story for more than a century, creating jobs, supporting communities and contributing directly to national development. By joining the Luanda Accord, Namibia is affirming that producing countries have both a stake and a responsibility in telling the true story of natural diamonds. This is about ensuring that the value created by our resources continues to benefit our people, today and for generations to come.”
Amber Pepper, CEO of the NDC, said: “Namibia’s decision to formally join the Luanda Accord is a powerful signal of leadership from one of the world’s largest diamond-producing nations. Collective action is essential to protect the integrity and desirability of natural diamonds, and Namibia’s commitment strengthens our ability to tell the compelling story of their positive impact.” At the same meeting, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and the NDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding that sets out a pathway for GJEPC to become an NDC member by 1 May