By IANS,
Harare : The Zimbabwean government Thursday said it is completing a diamond policy document which will lead to the crafting of the much anticipated Diamond Bill.
Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Christian Katsande told state radio that the government was satisfied with the progress made so far in the formulation of the policy, adding that the document will cover all stages from exploration to post beneficiation activities, reported Xinhua.
“I am glad to announce that significant progress has been made in the crafting of the policy document which will culminate in the enactment of a Diamond Act to govern the sector. This document is critical in the development of the local diamond industry,” Katsande said.
The policy, which is currently at the draft stage, seeks to promote the country as a safe destination for diamond investors, promote accountability as well as ensuring that the valuation and marketing of the country’s diamonds meet international best practices.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development Prince Mupazviriwo explained that the implementation of the policy will promote integration of the diamond industry into the economy and ensure that the sector makes meaningful contribution.
Diamond deposits were discovered in 1903 in the country.