ABOUT GGCE 2025 Accelerating Collaborations for sustainable Gold &Gemstone Development in Africa

Africa is home to a vast array of high-value gemstones, including Ethiopian Opals, Kenyan Tsavorite, Tanzanian Tanzanite, and Zambian Emeralds. However, despite being a major producer, Africa’s artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) struggle to fully benefit from the lucrative global gemstone market due to a lack of market knowledge, value addition skills, and direct access to buyers.

The Africa Mining Vision (AMV) emphasizes the need for local value addition to minerals to maximize the economic benefits of the mining sector. AGJEC aligns with this vision by promoting ethical sourcing, value creation, and intra-African trade within the gemstone and jewelry sector, particularly focusing on women miners and entrepreneurs.

In 2024 our theme in focus was a Legacy of Unlocking Potential. Themed – ‘’Jewelry & Fashion Fusion”- echoing the African Development Bank's "Fashionomics'' initiative, highlighting the immense potential of African fashion and jewelry to drive economic growth, job creation, and regional integration.
In 2023 we had the theme "Expanding Gold and Gemstones Frontiers" collaborating with key stakeholders like the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals and AGJEC, successfully expanded its reach to include exhibitors from African counties, attracting a pan-African audience
The maiden edition in 2022 was themed "Unlocking the Potential of Gold and Gemstones in Nigeria'' successfully connected industry players within Nigeria showcasing the country’s vast potential in the gold and gemstone sector to the world
This year WIMIN takes a bold step forward with the theme ‘’ Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold & Gemstone Development in Africa’’ this theme would focus on sustainable gold and gemstone development to provide better income opportunities for artisanal miners and with collaborative effort of stakeholders work towards eradicating unwholesome practices, attracting more investment, generate revenue and create jobs to further contribute to Africa’s economic growth and development.

The Africa Gem, Jewelery Exhibition and Conference (AGJEC) serves as a premier platform to showcase Africa’s gemstone wealth, facilitate trade opportunities, and promote responsible sourcing. The event aims to enhance skills development, foster direct engagement between ASM miners and international buyers, and advocate for policy reforms that support local beneficiation.

Gold and Gemstone conference and exhibition, the brainchild of Women in Mining, Nigeria was born in 2021 out of the desire for Women in Mining in Nigeria to promote value addition through Jewelry making utilizing the various colored gemstones in Nigeria. Armed with the success story of our event which we shared in AMDC meeting in Kenya, it readily fused into the conceptualized program of AMDC christened as Africa Gem, Jewelry, Exhibition and Exhibition. (AGJEC) with the Gold and Gem Conference and Exhibition included in the nuanced continental calendar of gemstone events to be delivered annually - Nigeria possesses a wealth of untapped potential in the gemstone and jewelry sector.

This concept note intends to seek for collaboration for your support to co-sponsor the hosting of an annual conference embracing the artisanal nature of our miners and jewelers, coupled with strategic private sector investment, to revolutionize the industry and empower Nigerians within the Africa context.

  • Promote intra-African trade and market linkages within the gemstone sector under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
  • Foster responsible sourcing and ethical mining practices to enhance Africa’s reputation in the global jewelry industry.
  • Support women miners, traders, and entrepreneurs in value addition, trade, and access to finance.
  • Establish a sustainable continental calendar for gemstone and jewelry events, fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.
  • Provide training and capacity-building opportunities in gemstone identification, valuation, and processing.
  • Exhibition Pavilion: A marketplace for miners, traders, and jewelers to showcase their products.
  • Policy and Investment Forum: Discussions on regulatory frameworks, market access, and financing solutions.
  • Gem Cutting & Jewelry Design Competition: Showcasing African talent in lapidary skills.
  • Technical Training Workshops: Hands-on sessions on gemstone processing and trade dynamics.
  • Networking Gala & Awards: A platform for key stakeholders to connect and celebrate industry excellence.
  • Enhanced visibility and market access for African gemstones and jewelry.
  • Strengthened capacity of ASM miners through training and skills development.
  • Increased financial inclusion for gemstone traders through engagement with banks and investors.
  • Policy recommendations for governments to enhance value addition and responsible sourcing.

Conference venue is at Lagos Oriental Hotel Lekki Lagos.

The 4th edition of the event is scheduled from November 26-28 2025 and aligns with other major regional gemstone fairs, ensuring maximum participation from global buyers and investors.

  • Governments and policymakers
  • Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners (ASM) and SMEs
  • Large-scale miners
  • Development partners
  • Local, regional, and international jewelry traders and manufacturers
  • Women’s mining associations
  • Equipment suppliers and technology experts
  • Academic and research institutions

The estimated budget for this event is over N175,000,000 covering venue costs for 3 days, Publicity, marketing, logistics, and training programs  

The GGCE is a celebration of inclusivity and local empowerment we therefore invite financial institutions, private investors, and industry stakeholders to support this initiative through sponsorship and endorsement aligning their brand with Africa’s growing gemstone sector while fostering economic empowerment and trade development.

AGJEC presents an opportunity to revolutionize Africa’s gemstone industry, creating a sustainable and inclusive value chain. We invite stakeholders to join us in this transformative journey.

Why Sponsor GGCE 2025?

  1. As a sponsor, your organization will continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of Africa’s gold and gemstone industry while benefiting from significant brand visibility and strategic networking opportunities.
  2. This year’s theme, “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold & Gemstone Development in Africa underscores our commitment to fostering responsible sourcing, craftsmanship, and private sector investment.

Why Sponsor GGCE 2025?

  • Brand Visibility: Showcase your brand to a diverse audience, including government officials, industry experts, investors, miners, and artisans.
  • Strategic Networking: Engage with key stakeholders, policy-makers, and potential business partners across the value chain.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Support women empowerment and sustainable mining practices while enhancing your organization’s impact in the sector.
  • Market Expansion: Leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to explore new business opportunities in a $20 billion gemstone and jewelry market.

Key Event Highlights

Exhibition Marketplace

A holistic platform for African artisanal miners, traders, cutters, and jewelers to showcase their products and services.

1

Jewelry & Fashion Fusion Runway Show

A spectacular showcase of how African gemstones integrate with the continent’s vibrant fashion industry.

4

Panel Discussions:

Experts will provide insights into market trends, sustainability, and policy frameworks.

2

Master Classes

An in-depth workshop/training to upskilled workforce in the gemstone and jewelry sector.

5

The Gemstone Cutters Competition

Laying the foundation for the emergence of a distinct ‘Nigerian Cut’ and promoting craftsmanship excellence.

3

Awards & Gala Night:

Recognizing outstanding contributions to the industry and celebrating innovation in gemstone and jewelry production.

6

GGCE - 2025 SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES

We offer various sponsorship tiers tailored to maximize your brand’s exposure and engagement at the event. These include:
  • Naming rights as “Platinum Sponsor”
  • Naming rights as “Venue and Opening day cocktail Sponsor”
  • Premier sponsorship status with visibility on all event materials, including the registration webpage, main stage, banners, program booklet and lanyards
  • Speaking opportunity/Moderating during the opening ceremony
  • Prime exhibition space in the Exhibition Hall Logo and branding on all event materials, including the registration webpage, main stage, banners, program booklet, and lanyards
  • Featured in social media announcements, press releases, media interviews, email campaigns, and advertisements
  • 5 VIP access passes for exclusive networking events
  • Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendee
  • Naming rights as a “Gold Sponsor”
  • Speaking opportunity (Goodwill message) during the Opening Session
  • Prime exhibition space Logo and branding on all event materials, including the registration webpage, main stage, banners, and program booklet
  • 3 VIP passes for exclusive networking sessions
  • Featured in social media announcements, press releases, media interviews, email campaigns, and advertisements Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendee
  • Naming rights as a “Silver Sponsor” of major segments like panel discussions or master classes Branding on event materials and selected press releases
  • 2 VIP passes for exclusive networking events
  • Exhibition space Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendees
    • Naming rights as a “Silver Sponsor
    • Branding selected marketing materials and event website
    • 1 VIP pass for exclusive networking sessions
    • Exhibition space Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendees
    • Naming rights as a “Award & Gala Dinner Sponsor”
    • Speaking opportunity (Goodwill Message) during the Award &Gala Dinner
    • Prime exhibition space in the allocated zone Logo and branding on all event materials, including the registration webpage, main stage, banners, and program booklet
    • Featured in social media announcements, press releases, media interviews, email campaigns, and advertisements
    • 10 VIP access passes at the Gala Dinner with seating at the reserved tables
    • Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendees
    • Naming rights as an “Jewelry & Fashion Fusion Sponsor”
    • Speaking opportunity (Goodwill Message) during the Jewelry and Fashion Fusion show
    • Logo and branding on all event materials, including the registration webpage, main stage, banners, and program booklet
    • 2 VIP access passes for exclusive networking events
    • Opportunity to distribute company brochures or branded merchandise to attendees

GGCE - 2025 3 - DAY JEWELRY MAKING MASTER CLASS

Course Title:  Ethical & Sustainable Jewellery Design for Beginners Course Description: Join us for an enlightening journey into the world of ethical and sustainable jewelry design. This beginner friendly course will introduce you to the principles of responsible jewelry design, exploring the social and environmental impact of the jewelry industry. You will learn how to create beautiful, eco- friendly pieces that not only sparkle but also promote positive change Course Objective

  • Understand the principles of ethical and sustainable jewelry design
  • Learn about the environmental and social impact of the jewelry industry
  • Develop skills in designing and creating sustainable jewelry pieces
  • Explore eco-friendly materials and sourcing options
  • Discover ways to promote responsible practices in the jewelry industries
Course Content Day 1 Session 1-3: Tools & Materials overview
  • Why sustainability matters in Jewelry
  • Tools and material overview
  • Demonstration- simple wired -wrapped pendant or earing
Branding & Marketing Tips
  • Introduction to circular jewelry economy
  • Material sourcing – tips for ethical Sourcing
At the end of this session, you will be able to:
  • Design and create jewelry pieces that align with ethical and sustainable principles
  • Make informed decisions about material and sourcing
  • Understand the importance of transparency and accountability in the jewelry industry
  • Develop a personal style that reflects their values and commitment to sustainability
  • Gain branding and marketing insights for your jewelries
Target Audience
  • Beginners who are interested in learning jewelry making
Duration: Full day course – 10am – 4pm Course Fee: N50,000/per participant (Fees cover facilitation, course material in soft copy, tea break & lunch and basic certificate of participation)

Course Title:  Jewelry making & creative Innovation- mastering craftmanship, branding & market readiness Learning Objectives By the end of this training, participants will:

  • Master intermediate-to-advanced jewelery techniques.
  • Learn to combine metal, gemstone, and organic materials professionally.
  • Understand design thinking and collection development.
  • Gain insight into pricing, branding, and global market trends.
  • Apply sustainable practices in advanced design.
Course Content Session 1: Advanced Techniques in Assembly & Finishing (90 mins)
  • Design Concepts: Geometry, asymmetry, storytelling in design.
  • Techniques Covered:
  • Multi-strand beading
  • Advanced wire wrapping and weaving
  • Stone setting basics (glue-in, bezel)
  • Cold connections (riveting, tabs)
  • Demo & Practice: Make a statement piece (necklace or cuff).
Session 2: Mixed Media Jewellery & Sustainable Innovation (60 mins)
  • Combining metals, beads, textiles, shells, clay.
  • Upcycling: turning discarded materials (cans, fabric, wires) into art.
  • Using natural dyes and eco-friendly sealants.
  • Workshop Task: Create an eco-inspired accessory (earring or brooch).
Session 3: Branding, Pricing & Marketing Access (60 mins)
  • Packaging ideas using sustainable and local materials.
  • Pricing strategies (materials, labor, creativity, market type).
  • Digital selling platforms (Instagram, Etsy, African marketplaces).
  • How to write compelling product stories.
  • Introduction to certification & ethical sourcing
  • Material sourcing – tips for ethical Sourcing
Session 4: Mentor Q & A +Showcase (30-45 mins)
  • Open session with the master jeweller.
  • Showcase of participants' Day 2 projects.
  • Group photo, certificate distribution.
Materials & Tools Provided
  • Beading wire, cords, pliers
  • Assorted recycled and local gemstones
  • Metal blanks, rivets, clasps
  • Design journals, sketching pencils
  • Organic components (shells, seeds, textile scraps)
Target Audience
  • Those who are already into jewelry making and want to scale up their creativity to keep up with today’s trend and style
Duration: Full day Course 10am -4pm Course Fee: N75,000/per participant (Fees cover facilitation, course material in soft copy, tea break & lunch and Intermediate certificate of participation)

Course Title: Business of Jewellery – Scaling, Export & Global Standards Theme: From Artisan to Enterprise: Building a Sustainable Jewellery Brand Facilitator: Business Development Expert / Export Consultant / Experienced Jeweller Learning Objectives By the end of Day 3, participants will:

  • Understand how to structure and register a jewellery business.
  • Learn branding, pricing, and customer targeting strategies.
  • Gain knowledge of export procedures and global compliance standards.
  • Explore access to funding, certification, and cooperative models.
  • Create an action plan for their brand’s next 6–12 months.
Course content Session 1: Formalizing Your Jewellery Business (60 mins)
  • Business models: Sole proprietor, cooperative, limited company
  • Steps for registration (CAC in Nigeria or relevant authority)
  • Tax basics, recordkeeping, and inventory tracking
  • Business bank accounts and digital payment platforms
  • Checklist Handout: “Registering Your Jewellery Business in Nigeria”
Session 2: Export Readiness & Global Markets (75 mins)
  • Understanding international demand for African jewellery
  • Quality standards and packaging requirements
  • Introduction to AGOA, AfCFTA, and EU regulations
  • Working with export aggregators & trade fairs
  • Document checklist: invoice, certificate of origin, weight declaration
  • Resource Sheet: Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and partners
Session 3: Finance, Funding & Cooperatives (60 mins)
  • Access to finance: microloans, grants, cooperatives
  • Pitching for funding: what investors look for
  • Setting up a jewellery makers’ cooperative
  • Guest Input (optional): Speaker from SMEDAN, BOI, or a cooperative leader
  • Template: Simple business plan for jewellery business
  Session 4: Certification, Ethics & Sustainable Growth (45 mins)
  • Introduction to hallmarking, Fairtrade, eco-certifications
  • Sourcing ethically: local and global expectations
  • Legal considerations (IP, copyright, imitation risks)
  • Growing with sustainability as a core value
  • Worksheet: Action Plan for Ethical Brand Growth
Final Showcase & Graduation (30–45 mins)
  • Presentation of 3-piece collection developed over the course
  • Peer and mentor feedback
  • Award of Certificates
  • Group photo and networking opportunity
Target Audience
  • Those who want to horn their skill in the business of jewelry making to increase their buttom line
  • Those who want to expand into the global market with their jewelry business
Duration: Full day course -9am -4pm N100,000/ per participant (Fees cover facilitation, course material in soft copy, tea break & lunch and graduation certificate) Note: Discounts available for participants taking all the courses

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