Angolan diamond prospecting and producing firm “Endiama P&P”, a subsidiary to the National Diamond Company (Endiama-EP), Thursday in Luanda produced the first lot of 15,000 carats mined from Camuanzanza mine, in northeastern Lunda Norte province.

Speaking alongside the ceremony of presentation, attended by officials of the diamond sector, Endiama P&P managing board chairman, José Chimupi, said the lot will be appraised and sold to Angola’s Diamond Trading Society (Sodiam).

Comprising six areas, the Camuanzanza mine covers an extension of 535 square kilometres and a producing capacity of 12 to 15,000 carats a month, estimating a monthly production of 180,000 carats.

According to José Chimupi, in order to expand the project’s lifespan, the company will continue prospecting in the remainder areas of deposit, through the implementation of new projects.

He said prospecting carried out in one of the areas of concession established 11 blocks with proven mining reserves estimated at over 2.6 million cubic metres of mineral, corresponding to 891,713 carats.

He added that the monthly average carats for the current initial stage is estimated at 7,000, a figure expected to progressively rise to 12,000.

In addition to Camuanzanza, the source added, Endiama P&P has been working to expand its activity to other diamond areas throughout the national territory.

Endiama P&P was set up under a Cabinet Council’s 39/03 decree of June 27, with 99 percent of the shares, while Sodiam holds one percent.

The company was set up to carry out prospecting, research and exploration of diamonds. It can also invest in other businesses that include industry and commerce.