Chie Murakami, a 50-year-old woman from Japan, found inspiration in her own engagement ring to make a difference in the lives of diamond miners in Liberia. As the founder and CEO of Diamonds for Peace, a non-governmental organization, she is dedicated to improving the environmental and socio-economic conditions of diamond mining communities in developing countries.
After receiving her engagement ring in 2007, Murakami was shocked to learn about the issues surrounding diamond mining, such as conflict diamonds and child labor. This led her to use her experience in international development to establish Diamonds for Peace. The organization’s mission includes raising awareness about diamond mining issues, supporting the workers, and providing emergency aid in times of crisis.
Murakami’s decision to focus on Liberia was influenced by a trip to Sierra Leone in 2012, where she saw the impact of mining firsthand. In Liberia, she observed extreme poverty among the artisanal mining communities, with workers earning only around $300 a year. Many miners operate without valid licenses, leading to the smuggling of diamonds out of the country.
To address these challenges, Diamonds for Peace has implemented projects to help miners diversify their sources of income, such as beekeeping and fish farming. The organization also provides training on responsible diamond mining practices and rough diamond grading and evaluation.
Funding for Diamonds for Peace comes mainly from grants, including support from the Japan Fund for Global Environment and the World Bank. Individual donors and corporate members, such as jewelry designer Mio Harutaka, also contribute to the organization’s efforts.
Despite the male-dominated mining industry in Liberia, Diamonds for Peace has seen the participation of female miners in the communities they work with. Murakami believes that women are more open to the organization’s teachings and are crucial in driving positive change in the mining sector.
Through her work with Diamonds for Peace, Chie Murakami is making a significant impact on the lives of diamond miners in Liberia, demonstrating the power of women in leadership roles in international development.
