Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has revealed that efforts are being made in line with the Luanda Accord, where diamond-producing countries are coming together to determine how best to navigate the downturn in the diamond sector.

Dr. Ngurare was responding to IPC's leader in the National Assembly, Immanuel Nashinge, on the job security for Namibians in the diamond industry.

"And perhaps in brief, if you could really just tell us what the status is, what is going on, the job security of the Namibian people who are working there, and the resources just in general as to what is going on at this point in time."

The Premier acknowledged that there has been a downturn in the diamond sector, and this is particularly due to reduced demand in the major economies that purchase diamonds.

This he said has also had a negative effect on the economy.

Dr. Ngurare assured that the government is addressing the issue and will safeguard workers in the industry and protect the diamond sector.

“Since we are not the ones who determine the prices and deal with all the other issues, it becomes increasingly difficult. Of course, there is a negative effect on the people in the industry, particularly those who are working there. From our side as government, we are doing everything possible to safeguard the workers in the industry and protect the diamond sector. Hopefully, there will be some form of recovery, as projected for 2029 and beyond. So, we are working on it, but there are certain factors beyond our control. I think that is what I can say in response.”