By Chisomo Phiri
Renowned gemologist and founder of Yami Gemstone Lab & Export (YAGLE),Yamikani Jimusole, has been named one of the 10 winners of the Mining Indaba 2026 Community Voices award.
This prestigious recognition celebrates African innovators and community leaders driving growth and sustainability in the mining sector.
In an interview with 247 Malawi News,Jimusole, the only representative from Malawi,said the award is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the potential of Africa’s mining sector.
“We are turning gemstones into stories of growth and opportunity for Africa,” he said.
The gemologist said the award acknowledges his company’s efforts to transform Malawi’s gemstone industry and promote sustainable mining practices.
He emphasized that Africa is shifting from being just a producer of raw gemstones to becoming a consumer and market for its own gemstones, adding value locally and driving economic growth.
“We re not just extracting and exporting raw materials, we are creating a local industry that benefits our communities and showcases Africa’s rich gemstone heritage,” said Jimusole.
He called on the government to take the gemstone industry seriously, highlighting its potential to generate more foreign exchange than the tobacco industry.
“It is time we diversify our economy and tap into the vast potential of our gemstone resources,” he said.
Jimusole will leave Malawi on February 8th to participate in the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 9-12, where he will join other winners to share insights and experiences.
The other winners hail from Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, Zambia, and Mozambique, showcasing the diversity of Africa’s mining sector.
The Malawi government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mining, Mining and Minerals Regulatory Authority (MMRA), and state mining company Malawi Mining Investment Company (MAMICO), will also be at the conference showcasing Malawi’s mining potential.
Minister of Energy and Mining Jean Mathanga will be speaking at the conference on the topic ‘Has the decline in foreign aid strengthened or strained Africa’s self-reliance’.
