DTC relocation to transform SADC region

 In a briefing to visiting President of Malawi, Dr Joyce Banda this week, two representatives of DTC Botswana -Tabake Kobedi and Andy Boultin said the relocation will result in a great inflow of diamond industry expertise, technology, personnel and leading business, especially when De Beers International Sales, Aggregation and related functions are transfered to Gaborone by December 2013. They said DTC Botswana sightholders have grown from 16 to 21 in the past year, creating 3,500 jobs. The duo said an additional P200 million has been put aside to be spent on extending the existing DTC buildings in Botswana.

"Investments in modifications and extensions of DTCB will exceed P170 million. Majority of furniture, art and decorations are being sourced through Botswana based companies. De Beers is refurbishing company owned properties as well as renting 20 more properties in Gaborone in 2012 and 55 more properties in 2013," the officers said.