The World Diamond Council (WDC) has announced its support for the the Kimberley Process' (KP) decision to implement an intensive, on-the-ground inspection program in Zimbabwe's Marange diamond fields.



The program will monitor and audit the export of diamonds from Zimbabwe's Maranage province.



The WDC stated that although the Zimbabwean authorities have acknowledged indications of significant non-compliance and have undertaken to work with KP authorities to address these issues, the WDC remains deeply concerned about diamonds originating from Marange.



WDC Chairman Eli Izhakoff stated: "The ability of Zimbabwe to harness its natural resources, including diamonds, for the benefit of its people is our primary concern. This is a challenging situation, but one in which determined and focused engagement provides the best chances for a successful outcome."



The work plan includes rigorous and comprehensive scrutiny over the next year, with the Kimberley Process working closely with Zimbabwean authorities to achieve full compliance. Izhakoff noted that the entire diamond industry, along with the rest of the world, will be watching closely.



Izhakoff warned: "This is a complicated and challenging issue, meaning there can be no perfect solution. However, this working plan represents robust and sincere action by the Kimberley Process to achieve the common objectives held by all of its participants."