BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-A small-scale miner and one of the few accredited graduate gemologists from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Yamikani Jimusole,has been selected as one of the Top 10 winners of the Mining Indaba 2026 (MI26) Community Voices Video Competition.
The MI26 will take place from 9 to 12 February,2026, in Cape Town, South Africa under the theme “Stronger together: Progress through partnerships”.
This exciting opportunity recognizes Yamikani’s dedication to uplifting his community in Malawi’s artisanal and small-scale mining sector through his company,Yami Gemstone Lab & Exports (YAGLE).
In his winning video, Yamikani highlighted the pressing challenges YAGLE faces in Malawi’s gemstone industry which include the lack of proper grading, certification, appraisal systems, and bureaucracy.
He shed light on how these gaps hinder local miners from getting fair value for their stones, stifle growth, and limit the industry’s potential.
Yamikani did not stop at challenges.He also pitched the vast opportunities in Africa’s gemstone and jewelry sector.
With the right systems in place, he envisioned a thriving industry that empowers communities, creates jobs, and boosts the economy.
In an interview with Maravi Post,the Malawian gemologist said he will use the event to connect with certification bodies, governments, CSOs, and investors to push for reforms that benefit Malawi’s artisanal miners and unlock the sector’s potential.
MI26 is one of the largest mining conferences in Africa, held annually in Cape Town, South Africa.
The event brings together industry leaders, investors, governments, and communities to discuss innovation, sustainability, and partnerships in mining.
For Yamikani, MI26 is a chance to amplify his voice, share his story, and engage with key stakeholders shaping the future of Malawi’s mining industry.
As a winner, Yamikani will receive full support to attend MI26, including travel, accommodation, and a delegate pass.
He might even participate in a community workshop, making his trip both inspiring and impactful.
Adding to his recent success, Yamikani led YAGLE to victory in the inaugural Phuka SME Mining Awards 2025 organized by Standard Bank Malawi in partnership with SMEDI, showcasing his innovative approach to transforming Malawi’s artisanal mining sector.
Here is the link to the winning pitch Video https://youtu.be/wGmmMEmA9yY?si=sdRB8H4iyPxlL5A-