Diamond Industry Calls for Stronger Partnerships at Mining Indaba 2026
Global leaders in the diamond sector have called for stronger collaboration across the value chain, as the industry confronts mounting market challenges, at Mining Indaba 2026.
A central message emerging from the gathering was that partnerships are no longer optional but essential to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience in a rapidly evolving global market.
Chairman of Ninety One and former De Beers Group chief executive, Gareth Penny, warned that collaboration is critical for the industry’s survival.
“Partnerships are no longer optional; they are the only path to long-term survival,” he said, urging stakeholders to adopt a shared strategy in response to market pressures.
At the conference, Debswana Diamond Company highlighted collaboration as the cornerstone of its operations. Chief Operating Officer Koolatotse Koolatotse said the company’s long-standing partnership model between government and private enterprise continues to underpin its sustainability and growth.
He added that such partnerships enable the sharing of technical expertise and resources, helping to mitigate volatility and strengthen resilience across the African mining sector.
One of the notable developments at the summit was the expansion of the Luanda Accord, a multinational initiative aimed at coordinating global marketing efforts for natural diamonds through the Natural Diamond Council.
Modestus Amutse described the accord as a significant step towards collective branding and promoting the value of natural diamonds.
“Producing countries have both a stake and a responsibility in telling the true story of natural diamonds,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of the Natural Diamond Council David Kellie also stressed the importance of collective action in maintaining the integrity and appeal of natural diamonds in global markets.
Meanwhile, De Beers Group outlined its recovery strategy, with Chief Operating Officer Kevin Smith emphasising that stronger partnerships and operational discipline will be central to the company’s growth plans in 2026.
“Stronger partnerships will be key as we position for the next phase of industry growth,” he said.
Beyond corporate players, policymakers and industry stakeholders echoed similar sentiments, highlighting public-private collaboration as vital for unlocking Africa’s mineral potential and ensuring sustainable development.
Held under the theme “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships,” the conference reinforced a growing consensus that cooperation across governments, companies and markets is critical to navigating disruption and sustaining demand.
As the industry faces increasing competition and shifting consumer dynamics, leaders agreed that no single player can secure the future alone, highlighting the importance of collective action in shaping the next phase of growth for the global diamond sector.
