Analyze the impact of 'conflict' diamonds in Africa

Overview: While diamonds are mined in many countries in Africa, control over diamond mines in some of these countries is linked to bloody civil wars, human rights abuses and atrocities. Billions of dollars generated by the sale of these "conflict diamonds" enables rebels to arm themselves heavily with advanced weapons and to enlist new soldiers in civil wars. Use this article and discussion/activity to have students analyze the impact of conflict diamonds on African countries.

Curriculum Connections: Social Studies

RESOURCES HRW World Atlas: South Africa

Have students read the CNNfyi.com article "Diamonds lure wealth, conflict to African nations" and answer the following questions:

1. Have students locate South Africa on a world map. Then ask: What is apartheid? As compared to South Africa's economy under apartheid, why is the time period of the mid- to late-1800s considered a bright spot in South Africa's economic history? How did the discovery of the diamond mines affect the Kimberley area? What is the De Beers group?

2. What are "blood" diamonds or "conflict" diamonds? According to the diamond industry, what percentage of the global diamond market is accounted for from "blood" diamonds? What figure do human rights campaigners offer to dispute this percentage? Why is this figure significant? What is "Kimberley Process"? What does it require of all diamonds? Do you think this will help decrease the amount of transactions of "conflict" diamonds? Why or why not?

3. Point out to students that billions of dollars generated by the sale of "conflict diamonds" enables rebels to arm themselves heavily with advanced weapons and to enlist new soldiers in civil wars. Divide your class into four groups. Have each group prepare a presentation about the history and impact of the war in one of the following African countries: Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola or Liberia. Have each group identify the role of diamonds in the conflict. Following the presentations, have each student write an essay in response to one of the following three questions:

• Does the diamond industry, as a whole, contribute to these conflicts? If so, how?
• What can the diamond industry and the international community do to help stop the violence in these countries?
• Will stopping the trade of blood diamonds end the wars in these African nations?