Watch Diamonds of War: Africa's Blood Diamonds

Diamonds of War: Africa's Blood Diamonds is a National Geographic documentary that explores the disturbing realities of the diamond trade in Africa. This four-part series sheds light on the brutal and violent truth behind the glamorous and coveted diamond industry.

The series takes the viewers on a gripping journey through Angola, Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Liberia, all known for diamonds and violent diamond mining. It starts with an introduction to the Kimberley Process, a global certification scheme that intends to eradicate conflict diamonds from the supply chain.

The first episode, "The Curse of Gold," sets the stage for the blood diamond trade in Sierra Leone. It shows how the country's diamond mines, once a source of revenue, have become a death trap for many young miners. The documentary details how the government, rebels, and foreign corporations have conspired to exploit the wealth at the expense of people's lives. Viewers follow the harrowing tales of some young miners, who escaped the deadly hazards associated with the trade, and hear testimony from locals who witnessed unimaginable horrors.

The second episode, "The Real Winnie Mandela," shows the impact of the diamond trade on Angola. The documentary follows the story of human rights activist Rafael Marques and how he is fighting for justice against the corrupt government officials and foreign corporations. The film also examines the impact of the war in Angola, which erupted when groups sought control of the country's diamonds. The documentary also reveals how the diamond trade led to the emergence of the powerful criminal syndicate known as the Kimbo Cartel.

In the third episode, "The Heroes and the Villains," the series takes viewers to the DRC, where more than five million people have died due to a conflict rooted in the diamonds trade. The documentary details the activities of the soldiers who perpetrate violence in the diamond mines, which exacerbates the humanitarian crisis. It highlights the plight of the "bagagers," who risk their lives mining diamonds with their bare hands. Viewers also see the inspiring work of the Kimbanguist Symphony Orchestra, who from the midst of the war, continue to perform music that reflects the resilience of their spirit.

The fourth and final episode, "The Kimberley Process," made clear the summary of what has been happening and a summary of the series so far. It highlights the Kimberley Process's inability to eliminate conflict diamonds bringing the narrative to a full circle. The documentary concludes with the realization that the Kimberley Process, which was thought to be the solution to the problems of the diamond trade, has failed to achieve its objectives.

Overall, Diamonds of War: Africa's Blood Diamonds is a moving and enlightening documentary that exposes the price of the diamond trade and its impact on Africans. It delves deep into the complex web of the diamond trade and highlights the need for responsible sourcing and ethical trade. The documentary goes beyond the glamorous image of diamonds to show viewers the human toll that the industry exacts from those who live in the shadow of its wealth. This documentary is essential viewing for everyone interested in the intricacies of the diamond trade and its impact on African countries.