This is a guest blog authored by Yamikani Jimusole, Founder, Yami Gemstone Lab & Export Ltd (Malawi). Yamikani is one of the ten (10) winners of the 2026 community voices video competition hosted by The Impact Facility, in partnership with Mining Indaba that invited community members, representatives of indigenous peoples in mining areas, civil society organisations, activists and visionaries to reflect on the MI26 theme, “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnership,” and how it relates to their lived experiences.

Yamikani attended Mining Indaba 2026 in Cape Town from 9 – 12 February in Cape Town, South Africa, and this blog summarises their experience at the conference.  More information about the competition is available here.

Malawi is blessed with some of the world’s rarest gemstones, including padparadscha sapphires, rubies, sapphires, grandidierite, spinel, aquamarine, tourmaline, and zircon. As one of the few companies in Africa with an accredited Gemologist from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA), I was proud to be an ambassador of Malawi’s gemstone sector at MI26. We showcased the country’s potential and highlighted the need for proper investment, grading, certification, and appraisal systems to truly benefit from our rich gemstone resources.

I represented Yami Gemstone Lab & Exports (YAGLE), a company advancing Gemology through research, exploration, mining, and beneficiation. YAGLE has a small-scale mining claim for aquamarine, rose quartz, lavender quartz, milky quartz, and mica – and we’re excited about a potential gold and ruby deposit spanning over 25,000 hectares. 

My experience at Mining Indaba 2026 was a game-changer! I connected with potential investors, including banks and mining companies, and had meaningful conversations that could shape our project’s future. The exhibitions were amazing, giving me incredible exposure to industry leaders and innovations. I also participated in TDI Sustainability’s daily interviews, which was a great opportunity to share our story. And as a bonus, I got to explore Cape Town – the city’s beauty and vibe were the perfect complement to a productive Indaba

One key message I took to the Indaba was that Africa is rich in gemstones, but we need proper investment, grading, certification, and appraisal systems to truly benefit from the sector. And importantly, Africa is no longer just a producer of raw gemstones – it’s becoming a big market for our own gemstones, adding value locally and driving economic growth. With the right support, our continent can unlock its full potential.

Embracing the theme ‘Stronger Together, Progress Through Partnerships’, YAGLE is seeking collaborations in investment, technology, and expertise that drive growth and impact. We’re eager to forge partnerships that strengthen our presence in the gemstone sector and amplify our mission.