Who We Are
At Zyra Africa, we believe in bridging the gap between remote mining communities and global markets. Based in Kenya, our work focuses on collecting rough and cut gemstones—especially Tsavorite, Ruby, Spinel, Tourmaline, Rhodolite, and Ruby—directly from the artisanal miners of Taita Taveta.
Our Sourcing Model
Our sourcing model is based on trust, transparency, and long-term collaboration with local miners. We provide market access, price fairness, and visibility to ensure miners benefit from their natural wealth.
We are not just gemstone traders—we are partners in transformation. Our gems are ethically sourced, our operations are community-centered, and our mission is simple: deliver exceptional Kenyan gemstones while empowering the hands that uncover them.
Our Sourcing Locations in Taita Taveta
Mkuki
Tsavorite, Ruby
Kabanga
Tsavorite, Ruby
Mgongoni
Tsavorite, Ruby
Kasighau
Green Tourmaline, Chawia Crystals
Mkuki
Rhodolite, Amethyst
Kamtonga
Garnets, Spinels
Our Mission
To create a direct, transparent market for ethically sourced African gemstones that empowers artisanal miners in Taita Taveta County and their communities through fair trade practices and sustainable development initiatives.
We eliminate middlemen, ensuring miners receive premium compensation while buyers gain complete traceability and authenticity.
Our Vision
To become the global benchmark for ethical, transparent gemstone sourcing that demonstrates how luxury and sustainability can coexist, creating prosperity for miners and their families.
We envision a future where every gemstone tells a story of positive impact—economic, social, and environmental.
Taita Taveta County, Kenya
Nestled in southeastern Kenya, Taita Taveta County is home to some of Africa's most prized gemstone deposits. For generations, artisanal miners have extracted precious stones from this region—often without fair compensation or market access.
Rich Geological Heritage
Known for world-class Tsavorite garnet, ruby, sapphire, and tourmaline deposits
Artisanal Mining Communities
Home to thousands of artisanal miners and cutting craftspeople
Conservation Focus
Balancing gemstone extraction with environmental protection and reforestation
Our Miner Partnership Model
Direct Relationships
We work directly with registered artisanal mining cooperatives and individual miners, eliminating exploitative middlemen.
Fair Market Pricing
All gemstones are purchased at or above international market rates, ensuring miners receive sustainable income.
Training & Capacity
We provide technical training on sustainable mining practices, gemstone grading, and business skills.
Certification & Documentation
Each gemstone is documented from source, with miners receiving certificates of authenticity and provenance.
Community Reinvestment
A portion of profits fund local initiatives: schools, healthcare, women's programs, and environmental conservation.
Our Ethical Sourcing Principles
Human Rights
- •No child labor
- •Safe working conditions
- •Fair wages
- •Freedom of association
Environmental
- •Sustainable mining practices
- •Land restoration
- •Water protection
- •Biodiversity conservation
Economic
- •Fair compensation
- •Transparent pricing
- •Market access
- •Income stability
Community
- •Local employment
- •Skills development
- •Healthcare support
- •Education funding
Traceability
- •Mine-to-buyer tracking
- •Certification records
- •Documentation audit
- •Blockchain verification
Empowerment
- •Women in mining
- •Youth programs
- •Leadership training
- •Business mentorship
Our Impact
Miners & Artisans Partnered
Families Empowered
Fair Compensation Paid
Schools & Programs Funded