The African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) and the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School (HODTS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the 29th of June 2026 to strengthen cooperation in diamond training, capacity building and sustainable development across Africa’s diamond sector.

The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in curriculum development, specialised training programs, and the promotion of best practices in diamond evaluation, processing, and trade. It also provides for joint initiatives such as workshops, seminars, and research projects aimed at fostering innovation and local beneficiation across the continent.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mrs Ellah Muchemwa, the ADPA Executive Director said that the partnership reflects ADPA’s commitment to building human capital and enhancing compliance with international standards and capturing optimum value for diamonds before sale. “This collaboration ensures that Africa’s diamonds contribute not only to global markets but also to socio‑economic growth and employment creation within our member states,” she said.

“Education has always been the greatest catalyst for transformation. A diamond, in its rough state, holds tremendous potential, but it is only through knowledge, skills, precision, and craftsmanship that its true brilliance is revealed. This partnership represents a shared vision between ADPA and the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School: that Africa should be known not merely as the source of diamonds, but as the home of world-class expertise, innovation, and excellence throughout the entire diamond value chain”, said Mr Neil Rademeyer, Director of HODTS.

The MoU will run for an initial period of three years, with bi‑annual review meetings to assess progress and identify opportunities for expansion. Both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership will yield lasting benefits for Africa’s diamond industry and its people by strengthening technical expertise, promoting value addition, and creating greater opportunities for sustainable economic growth and employment across the continent.