De Beers boss hails economic importance of diamonds

He stated that all the development and infrastructure in the country have been financed by diamond revenues. Moroka said that every recipient of the long service awards has played a significant role in making Debswana sparkle.  "This sparkle is reflected in Botswana's economic success story. This is why the government of Botswana and Debswana Diamond Mining Company have invested so much money in training and educating Batswana. It is therefore, important for all of us gathered here this evening to ask ourselves the question, 'what is my contribution to my nation'?" rhetorically stated Moroka.

He said that in the past 25 years, Debswana, like many other large corporate entities, has undergone major changes. "It (Debswana) has grown to become the largest miner of gem diamonds by value, employing over 5,000 people," he said. He asserted that it is worth understanding and appreciating that change is the one thing that is certain.