In a move that underscores its ongoing confidence in the future of natural diamonds, the Canadian diamond mining company announced it has signed a lateral development contract with Group R Mining and Exploration Botswana. The agreement covers all underground lateral development from the production and ventilation shafts to the orebody. Activities include the construction of the extraction level, the underground crushing chamber, fine ore bins, pump stations, drilling horizons, workshop facilities and all associated infrastructure required to advance the project toward first contact with kimberlite. In a statement issued on the local bourse, Lucara said the contract aligns with its commitment to successfully delivering the underground expansion, which is expected to extend Karowe’s life of mine and safeguard its status as a producer of large, high-value diamonds.
Group R is expected to mobilise in the second quarter of 2026, with development work scheduled to begin in July 2026. Recruitment and work-permit processes will start early that year, with what Lucara describes as a strong focus on local employment. Detailed engineering for the lateral development phase is already underway, while an updated life-of-mine plan, informed by ongoing simulation work was being finalised, it noted. Lucara President and CEO, William Lamb, said the award of the project signaled commitment to growing operations in Karowe while strengthening the company’s core metrics. “The award of the last major contract for the UGP reflects our commitment to maintaining momentum on the Project and delivering the Project safely, responsibly, and in accordance with our schedule.
