In the face of a complex and global mineral resource value chain, the need for robust traceability systems is increasingly urgent for Africa and by embracing robust traceability, the mining industry can build trust, mitigate risks, and contribute to a more responsible and ethical future.
These were the words of Dr Janet Adeyemi, president of Women in mining Nigeria (WIMIN). She spoke at the weekend at the 47th edition of the monthly training webinars organized by WIMIN, while delivering her lecture on the topic: Diverse Tracing Techniques and Their Applications In The Mining Chain: Ensusiring Transparency And Sustainability. The webinars are organized to ensure that knowledge is not limited to professionals alone.
Dr Adeyemi noted that because Africa is rich in mineral resources and in some instances is the only one with certain minerals, African nations that want to develop must up their game in technology – especially with regards to transparency.
“It is not merely a technical exercise but a fundamental requirement for promoting transparency, accountability, sustainability, and ultimately, ensuring that Africa’s mineral wealth serves as a catalyst for genuine and equitable development,” Dr Adeyemi said.
“By embracing innovative tracking technologies, fostering collaboration across the value chain, and strengthening regulatory frameworks, African nations can navigate the complexities of the global market and harness the power of traceability to combat illicit activities, promote responsible practices, and secure a more prosperous and sustainable future for their people.
“The journey towards greater transparency in mineral supply chains is a long one, but it is a necessary one for Africa to truly benefit from its natural resource endowment in the 21st century.”
The WIMIN president noted that though Africa is a key supplier of critical minerals vital to global industries—electronics, automotive, infrastructure, and green energy, the path from extraction to end-use is complex and lacks transparency, involving multiple global actors.
This opacity fosters risks in accountability, sustainability, and fair value distribution, she said, adding that a strengthening of the traceability systems is essential to ensure minerals drive sustainable development and prevent conflict, corruption, and environmental harm.
Noting that the opacity enables illegal transactions & revenue loss, Dr Adeyemi said the intricate global mining value chain necessitates robust traceability for African mineral resources to ensure fairness, sustainability, and prevent exploitation.
In his paper, titled, “Importance of Gemstone Origin in view of Global Trade Politics”, Engr Clever Sithole noted that the origin of gemstones significantly shapes their value, ethical considerations, and geopolitical influence in the realm of global trade.
“From diamonds sourced in Africa to Burmese rubies, the provenance of gemstones not only determines their desirability but also impacts international relations, economic policies, and consumer behavior,” he said.
Sithole, a Mining & Mineral Processing Engineer said an understanding of the complexities of gemstone origin highlights the need for sustainable and ethical practices to ensure equitable distribution of benefits and to minimize exploitation. Furthermore, geopolitical stability and international cooperation are critical in leveraging gemstones as tools for economic growth rather than sources of conflict.
“In a world where both consumers and nations are increasingly aware of the stories behind the resources they trade and cherish, gemstone origins hold the power to not only define market dynamics but also foster ethical and sustainable global trade practices,” he said. “By appreciating and addressing the multifaceted impact of gemstone origins, we pave the way for a fairer and more transparent gemstone industry.
He however affirmed that Africa’s gemstones are highly valued in global markets for their unique qualities. These include, Namibian Diamonds: Known for their exceptional clarity; Zimbabwean Emeralds: Prized for their brilliant green color; Tanzanian Tanzanite: A rare and exclusive gemstone that draws high demand worldwide, and Nigerian Topaz: sought after in international markets for its affordability and quality, making it a popular choice for both fine and fashion jewelry.
“Africa’s position in the global gemstone trade is both influential and complex, reflecting its wealth of resources, economic potential, and ethical challenges,” Sithole said, adding that politics plays a significant role in shaping the price, value, and global demand for gemstones.
“Political decisions, such as trade sanctions, can restrict the export or import of gemstones from certain regions, affecting their availability and price. E.g. U.S. sanctions on Burmese rubies due to human rights concerns have limited their access in certain markets, increasing their rarity and driving up prices in others,” he said.
“International regulations, such as the Kimberley Process for conflict-free diamonds, influence value and demand by ensuring ethical sourcing.- Gemstones certified as conflict-free are more desirable to consumers, often commanding a premium price.”
