Ghana, represented by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), has been appointed Vice Chair of the Kimberley Process (KP) for 2026 and is set to assume the Chairmanship in 2027. This landmark appointment, announced at the 2025 Kimberley Process Plenary in Dubai, marks the first time a West African nation will lead the global diamond certification initiative since its inception in 2003.

Despite being one of the world’s smaller diamond producers, Ghana’s strong commitment to responsible mineral governance, transparency reforms, and technical expertise in gold and diamond management garnered widespread confidence among KP members. The appointment followed intense deliberations among governments, industry stakeholders, and civil society, underscoring Ghana’s readiness to steer the KP’s efforts in combating conflict diamonds and enhancing sustainable practices worldwide.

As Chair, Ghana will oversee the implementation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), coordinate working groups and committees, and guide policy decisions to ensure the integrity of the global diamond supply chain. Ghana Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi emphasized that this esteemed role entails a significant responsibility to lead with excellence, transparency, and innovation.

The UAE, the current custodian Chair in 2025, continues to maintain leadership continuity, while the position of Chair for 2026 remains unfilled. Ghana’s leadership signals a new chapter for the KP, strengthening West Africa’s role in global diamond governance and sustainable industry practices.