A Bright Future for Kenya’s Gemstone Sector: The Voi Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Centre Centre

In a momentous event that sent ripples of hope through Kenya’s gemstone sector, the President of the Republic of Kenya officially inaugurated the Voi Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Centre (VGVAMC) in Voi, Taita Taveta County. This center, which has long been considered the ‘sleeping giant’ of Kenya’s gemstone sector, is set to ignite a transformation that promises to significantly boost the sector’s performance, create jobs, and contribute substantially to the country’s economic growth.

Unveiling a Gem of Opportunity: Voi Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Centre

The VGVAMC’s inauguration was more than just a ceremony; it marked a turning point in the fortunes of Kenya’s gemstone industry. Located in the heart of Voi Town, this center is poised to be a game-changer, and its impact is set to be felt across multiple fronts. During its Unveiling, there was a slight improvement of its name from the Voi Gemstone and Value Addition Centre (VGVAC) to the Voi Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Centre (VGVAMC). The inclusion of the marketing center is a welcome move that exponentially improves the impact of the center.

Boosting the Gemstone Sector Performance

The VGVAMC is set to providing a dedicated space for value addition and marketing hence catalyzing the growth of the sector in several ways:

1. Enhanced Quality: The value addition process will lead to improved gemstone quality. As noted by traders during the event, the value addition by cutting and faceting of gemstones makes them more appealing and valuable in both domestic and international markets.
2. Market Access: The center will serve as a bridge connecting gemstone miners to markets. With a well-established marketing hub, it will facilitate the smooth distribution of region gemstones both within the country and beyond.
3. Attracting Investment: The center’s presence will attract local and international investors looking to capitalize on Kenya’s gemstone potential. This influx of capital and expertise is expected to fuel industry growth and innovation.

Job Creation and Economic Growth

The vision for the Voi Gemstone Value Addition Centre extends beyond gemstones; it encompasses the livelihoods of many. By boosting the gemstone sector, the center is set to create numerous employment opportunities. This is not only limited to those directly involved in the gemstone industry but also includes various support services such as transport, security, and hospitality. With its location near Tsavo National Park, it is set to boost the tourism industry.

While the mining sector has the potential to contribute up to 10% of the Kenya’s GDP, it is currently only contributing approximately 1% to the economy. Optimistically, the commissioning and operationalizing of the center will help leap ahead to the set target.

A Future Filled with Possibilities

The inauguration of the Voi Gemstone Value Addition and Marketing Centre signifies a turning point, not just for the gemstone sector, but for the entire nation. It showcases the commitment to harnessing the untapped potential within Kenya’s boundaries and leveraging it for the greater good. The gemstone sector is no longer a sleeping giant; it has been awakened, and it’s poised to shine brightly on both the local and global stage. However, we hope that like many optimistic launches in the past, the Voi Gemstone Center will live to meet and exceed expectations. To achieve this, all the mining stakeholders mining must work collaboratively to achieve a win-win scenario. Without all stakeholders onboard and ready to support the gemstone center vision, this will remain a white elephant project.

Here at Climine ventures Limited we are optimistic that the Gemstone sector has been awakened!