'A Kimberley Protest': Diamond Mining, Export Sanctions and Poverty in Akwatia, Ghana

摘要: The temporary suspension of diamond exports in Ghana 2006 and 2007 is arguably the most significant move to address mounting criticisms Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), an international initiative aimed at stemming flow rough diamonds used finance wars. ban, which took effect November 2006, was much praised, particularly civil society circles, where it continues be seen as a genuine effort prevent smuggling ‘conflict diamonds’. At time, accused harbouring stones originating from rebel-held territories in neighbouring Cote d’Ivoire. No evidence found support case that repository for diamonds’, however, resumed early March 2007. This article examines context accusations Ghana’s implication illicit diamonds, and draws on recent fieldwork explain how has affected Akwatia, country’s main diamondiferous area. actions taken raise important questions about suspected violators – particularly smaller diamond-producing nations KPCS should handled, underscore global compacts can have host negative repercussions village level.