An interview with Minister Dr. Diamantino Pedro Azevedo from Angola

Last week, Angola hosted its second edition of the Angola International Diamond Conference in Saurimo. As the fourth largest diamond producer in the world, this was a not-to-be-missed event for anyone with ties to the diamond industry. The untapped potential of Angola for high-value production promises that the 9.8 million carats produced in 2023 will grow over the next few years.

The Angolan government has led a massive reform for transparency over the last few years, led by President Lourenço, Minister of Mineral Resources, oil and gas Dr. Diamantino Azevedo, Chairman of ENDIAMA Ganga Jr., and Dr. Bravo da Rosa from Sodiam. 

Minister Diamantino Pedro Azevedo was present at the conference and gave a keynote about his country’s efforts to prioritize its citizens in the diamond industry. They had to build this idea from the ground up but aim to create more job opportunities for the Angolans, and young people in particular. The second goal is to ensure a better life-quality for the communities created around the diamond industry. Finally, Angola hopes to attract more strategic investment opportunities by hosting the conference.

We managed to have a short interview with him about the importance of the Angolan diamond industry, where the opportunities lie, and what issues it is facing. 

What is the purpose of this conference?

Azevedo: The conference aims to showcase the achievements of the Diamond Development Hub in Saurimo and its positive impact on Angola's diamond industry. Since 2017, the hub has increased the number of diamond-cutting factories and established vocational schools for diamond-cutting and mining skills. It adds value to Angola's mineral resources, with ongoing projects in Namibe and new laboratories for diamond sampling. This second edition of the conference seeks to attract industry stakeholders to Lunda Sul, promote government efforts in diamond exploration and production, and encourage investment in the sector. A key objective is to enhance the visibility and sales of Angolan diamonds, ultimately benefiting local communities and driving economic development. 

How are companies participating in social and community projects, like the new village built by the Luele project, support for local farmers, and the energy and water projects sponsored in the province?

Azevedo: Significant progress is being made in social and community projects. The government aims to strengthen these efforts in response to challenges in the diamond industry, including the rise of synthetic diamonds and declining prices. The focus on sustainable social initiatives to support communities will continue to grow.

How is technology being used to monitor Angolan diamonds?

Azevedo: Angola is enhancing diamond traceability to track a diamond's origin and journey to customers. This initiative is voluntary and has been in development for years. Recently, technologies like the “Tracr” have been introduced to improve traceability, environmental standards, and processes in semi-industrial mining. We are exploring more methods to ensure traceability while adopting environmentally sensitive technologies.

Can you speak on the development of Angola’s diamond sector?

Azevedo: Under President João Lourenço's leadership, Angola has implemented a new governance model for the mining sector, separating oversight, regulation, and operational roles. The National Mineral Resources Agency now oversees all minerals, including diamonds, enhancing transparency and revenue by establishing a Diamond Exchange. Despite challenges like COVID-19, market volatility, and competition from synthetic diamonds, Angola is advancing technical aspects such as diamond classification, cleaning, and domestic auctions. The Diamond Exchange will be launched fully equipped, contributing to the sector's overall improvement.

How do you view the G7's support for implementing European verification measures outside of Europe, and do you think this would be an advancement for Angola?

Azevedo: The G7 currently imposes sanctions on Russian diamonds. Angola has a partnership with Alrosa and has communicated with the G7 about concerns that sanctions could negatively impact African diamond-producing countries. We seek to discuss all aspects while ensuring that our concerns, interests, and sovereignty are respected.

What measures are included in your sector’s strategy to combat illegal mining?

Azevedo: Illegal artisanal mining is a concern. While small-scale mining can offer opportunities for national investors, illegal mining is not tolerated. Angola has implemented laws for semi-industrial diamond mining that allow the use of simple equipment. We are combating illegal mining through educational and systematic approaches, striving to integrate those involved in illegal activities into legitimate projects and offering employment opportunities in agriculture and other sectors.

How do you see the partnership and relationship between Angola and Antwerp evolving over the next few months?

Azevedo: We are open to collaboration with any country or institution in the diamond sector, provided they respect our laws. The Angolan government has expressed interest in strengthening ties with Antwerp and has maintained offices there to facilitate engagement. We aim to collaborate in a way that aligns with our national interests and vision.