Our History

The exciting journey of the founding members of Global Gems International Ltd began in Angola in 1992…

The founding members met under challenging conditions in Angola, a country ravaged by many years of civil war. This adventurous team overcame many challenges – including but not limited to – diverse languages, cultures, and environments. This diversity not only augmented the strength of the relationship but also allowed them to grow and adapt to each other’s business acumen and personalities.  By taking advantage of each other’s skills,  a partnership was forged that opened new business opportunities.

Although Angola is certainly bountiful in agriculture and mineral resources, sourcing investments for an Angolan project during the Civil War was extremely difficult.   Once the team left the confines of Luanda’s capital, their life became that of a soldier, always on the alert.  Airfields and roads were under disrepair ravaged by the effects of war.  Mining supplies to support a fully functioning mine were extremely limited.  Daily travel to the project site had to be performed with military precision.  All mining supplies were exported by ship and air.  These items ranged from the smallest nut and bolt to a front-end loader, a complete bridge structure which was erected on site.

The initial funding was provided by the shareholders themselves, as well as, forward-thinking investors who made the beginnings of the start-up projects possible.   Inspired by their story and eager to offer his expertise, they were later joined by an accomplished diamantaire from Kimberley.    As the mining project progressed, funding was secured from a high-profile Canadian exploration company that assisted the team in developing the mine to become fully self-sufficient.  Under the strict guidelines of environmental rehabilitation, rivers were rerouted, and bridges and roads were built with a sustainable infrastructure that still exists today. The projects involved were Cassinguidi, Chimbongo, and Luo. The Camafuca Kimberlite exploration project licence was procured on behalf of a Canadian company.

By employing many local personnel with the addition of some adventurous willing and skilled South Africans the successful diamond projects that these partners undertook became a reality.

We honour our comrades who have passed on since and are determined to succeed in the latest project, Dala.