The Emerald and Semi-Precious Stones Mining Association of Zambia (ESMAZ) has made a powerful call to action, highlighting the success of Grizzly Mining Limited, an African-owned company, as a beacon of hope and progress in the continent's mining sector.
In a statement released yesterday, ESMAZ President Victor Kalesha emphasized the importance of supporting and collaborating with African mining giants to unlock the full potential of Africa’s mineral wealth.
Grizzly Mining Limited, founded by Mr. Abdoulaye Ndiaye, a Senegalese entrepreneur who has since acquired Zambian citizenship, stands as a testament to the heights African entrepreneurship can reach.
Under Mr. Ndiaye’s leadership, Grizzly Mining has grown to become the second-largest emerald producer and exporter in Africa.
This achievement not only underscores the potential within the continent but also sends a clear message:
Africa can elevate its own standards in mining, reducing dependency on Western exploitation.
Mr. Kalesha urged the Zambian government to recognize and support such African success stories.
“Mr. Ndiaye’s expertise and passion for Africa, particularly for Zambia, make him an ideal partner for growth and development in the Zambian emerald sector,” said Mr Kalesha.
He called for increased collaboration between African mining giants and small-scale miners, believing that such partnerships would unlock Africa’s mineral potential and help the continent retain a more significant share of its mineral wealth.
Mr Kalesha also appealed to the African Minerals Development Centre under the African Union to facilitate the necessary collaboration.
He highlighted key figures in the industry, such as Nicky Oppenheimer, Patrice Motsepe, Lee Mackson, and Desmond Sacco, as ideal partners for small-scale miners in Africa.
According to Mr Kalesha, by sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise, these industry leaders could empower small-scale miners, ensuring they can sell their minerals at competitive prices and that more of Africa’s mineral wealth remains within the continent.
The statement called for a collective assembly of African mining giants, small-scale miners, government officials, and technocrats to discuss strategies for adding value to Africa’s minerals and safeguarding its resources.
Mr Kalesha emphasized, “Grizzly Mining Limited is a shining example of African ownership and investment in the mining sector.
Together, we can awaken Africa's sleeping giant and unleash its full potential.”
This rallying cry for collaboration and empowerment marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to develop Africa's mining sector and ensure that the continent benefits
from its own natural resources.
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