Issued by: Department of Minerals and Energy
The current composition of the South African Diamond Board continues to be problematic and is evidenced by the extenious poor corporate governance adopted by the previous government, which must come to an end. Through the new Act, the minister of Minerals and Energy, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka hopes to find solutions to these problems.
In her Budget vote speech, the minister mentioned that a report on the submissions made to the Commission of Inquiry into the South African Diamond Industry has been complemented and some of the outcomes will be incorporated into a chapter in the coming Mineral Development Bill. That chapter of the Act will focus on the trade in diamonds and repeal the current Diamonds Act; it will transfer certain functions of the Diamond Board to the Department of Minerals and Energy and the South African Revenue Services, and promotional functions to the new Advisory Board. Therefore, in view of the pending restructuring of the Diamond Board, the enormous work it involves, Mr J G Thula requested the Ministry of Minerals and Energy to allow him to step down from his current responsibility as chairperson of the Board. He stated that due the number of responsibilities he holds, it would not be possible for him to carry out his responsibilities as chairperson of the Board. However, he would continue to assist with the restructuring process in his capacity as a Board member. Mr Thula has indicated that the minister should choose someone with more time to handle the challenges of the position.
Minister Mlambo-Ngcuka is currently considering Mr Thula's request.
Mr Thula is the first chairperson from the previously disadvantaged sector to occupy this position during one of the most trying periods in the history of this country. During his tenure, he has demonstrated serious commitment, ability and enthusiasm for one of South Africa's significant tasks. Through his stature and experience the Board gained enormously.
ENQUIRIES Mr Kanyo Gqulu
083 293 3377
012 317 9537
ISSUED BY GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS (GCIS) ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MINERALS AND ENERGY