Debswana diamond sales pick-up
Monday, April 26, 2010
Speaking at a 2009 annual review briefing in Gaborone last week, Debswana managing director, Blackie Marole said prospects for 2010 and beyond look good and the sale of diamonds in the first three months of the year is already showing positive signs.
Due to the world economic crisis, Debswana only produced 17 million carats in 2009 down from 32 million carats in 2008 leading to a 50 percent cut in revenue to the national coffers from the diamond mining giant.
The fees have been doubled from the previous amounts and raise concerns about political participation accessibility and democratic representation principles.This significant fee increase prompts questions regarding its impact on grassroots democracy.On one hand, the fees act as a filter, ensuring only serious contenders enter the race, potentially reducing frivolous candidacies and generating crucial campaign funds. The BDP argues that aspiring...