The Rapaport Group is spearheading a trade mission to Sierra Leone aimed at fostering connections between members of the diamond and jewelry trade and the artisanal mining community.
The mission, which will be led by Martin Rapaport, Chairman of the Rapaport Group, seeks to enhance the diamond and jewelry industry’s comprehension of the artisanal sector. According to Rapaport, a deeper understanding of this sector’s role and challenges is essential. He emphasized that the mission will shed light on opportunities for sustainable economic growth that could significantly improve the lives of countless individuals.
Sierra Leone is a significant player in the diamond trade, with diamond mining constituting a substantial portion of its exports. In 2022 alone, diamond production generated $143 million for the country, as indicated by data from the Kimberley Process (KP).
Scheduled to take place from October 15 to 20, the mission will involve a stay of three to five days in the Kono mining district. The participants will have the opportunity to explore the Peace Diamond Village, a location associated with the discovery of the 709-carat Peace Diamond. Additionally, the mission will encompass visits to sites where artisanal diamond diggers operate, alongside trips to areas focused on land reclamation and agricultural development. The itinerary concludes with two days of meetings with industry leaders.
To support the mission’s logistical arrangements, including accommodations, meals, transportation, and security, each participant is required to pay a fee of $3,000. The participation capacity is capped at 30 individuals.
Martin Rapaport underscored the importance of promoting sustainable economic progress for the less privileged. He emphasized the need to bridge the gap between affluence and deprivation, affirming that “tikkun olam,” or “fixing the world,” lies at the heart of addressing this divide.
