(Press Release) Diamond Development Initiative (DDI) announced a contribution from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) in support of its efforts to transform the artisanal and small-scale mining sector, improve the conditions of artisanal diamond miners and their families and to promote responsible sourcing.
“AWDC has been a longstanding and reliable partner,” said Dorothée Gizenga, executive director of DDI. “Their support enables DDI to continue its efforts to formalize the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in ways that benefit miners, their communities and local economies.”
Stephane Fischler, president of AWDC, said, “Artisanal mining accounts for almost 20 per cent of diamond production. Supporting DDI is the best way we know to ensure that programs are being implemented to ensure that artisanal production respects standards for human rights, health and safety, and environmental sustainability.”
Ari Epstein, CEO of AWDC, said, “Our collaboration with DDI is significant for us. Through DDI, we are able to contribute to the social and economic development of artisanal diamond miners, who are important participants in the diamond supply chain.”