Editor’s Note
Ghana’s election as Vice Chair (2026) and Chair (2027) of the Kimberley Process marks a historic first for a West African nation within this critical global mechanism for conflict diamonds.
Ghana has secured the roles of Vice Chair of the Kimberley Process (KP) for 2026 and Chair for 2027, making it the first West African country to hold such influential positions in the global diamond certification system.
The announcement came on November 21, 2025, during the closing session of the 2025 Kimberley Process Plenary at the ALMAS Conference Centre in Dubai. The appointment followed two days of intensive deliberations, ministerial engagements, and consultations among governments, industry stakeholders, and civil society organizations representing the international diamond trade.
The conference room erupted with warm applause at Ghana’s election, reflecting broad consensus and strong confidence in the country’s leadership capabilities. Delegates highlighted Ghana’s rising stature in the global minerals sector, commending the nation for transparency efforts, institutional reforms, and strengthened regulatory frameworks.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was established in 2003 to prevent rough diamonds from financing armed conflicts. Ghana’s appointment reflects the international community’s growing trust in the country’s management of the diamond sector and commitment to ethical mineral trade.
Per the governance structure of the Kimberley Process, the Chair and Vice Chair receive appointments by Plenary consensus. They oversee implementation of the certification scheme and operations of the working groups, committees and administration that activate the organization’s mandate.
The Kimberley Process brings together 60 participants representing 86 countries, accounting for more than 99 percent of the global rough diamond trade. The organization operates as a tripartite coalition uniting governments, the World Diamond Council representing industry, and civil society observers who monitor compliance and advocate for reforms.
The system requires participating countries to satisfy minimum requirements by establishing national legislation, institutions and import or export controls. Members must commit to transparent practices and exchange of critical statistical data while certifying shipments as conflict free.
Conflict diamonds, as defined by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1459, are rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance conflict aimed at undermining legitimate governments. The Kimberley Process is credited with dramatically reducing conflict diamonds to less than 1 percent of world diamond production.
Ghana’s leadership roles carry significant responsibility. As Vice Chair, the country will help coordinate operations and prepare for its tenure as Chair, during which it will guide policy decisions, oversee implementation of the certification system, and represent the organization in global forums.
Speaking at the Dubai plenary, Sammy Gyamfi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), which represents Ghana in the Kimberley Process, delivered remarks during the ministerial session.
He later expressed appreciation to member countries for the confidence reposed in Ghana.
The Ghana Gold Board has strengthened regulatory oversight of the country’s minerals sector in recent years, implementing reforms aimed at improving transparency and traceability in both diamond and gold trade. These institutional changes have enhanced Ghana’s credibility within international commodity governance frameworks.
During the Dubai visit, Ghana also engaged with executives from major refineries, exploring potential strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing local refining and value addition. Such initiatives could strengthen Ghana’s position in the global diamond value chain while supporting job creation and economic growth.
The 2025 plenary addressed multiple issues facing the diamond certification scheme, though delegates failed to reach consensus on broadening the definition of conflict diamonds. Various proposals have sought to expand the definition beyond rebel movements to include violence carried out by armed groups, militias, mercenaries, organized criminal networks, and private military companies.
Civil society organizations and some industry representatives have advocated for years to widen the scope of what constitutes conflict diamonds, arguing that the current narrow definition leaves room for diamonds linked to human rights abuses to enter legitimate markets. However, the Kimberley Process requires unanimous approval from all participants for any definitional changes.