ODC debuts diamond sales to citizens

Mmetla Masire PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Mmetla Masire PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

State-owned diamond trader, the Okavango Diamond Company (ODC), will next month start setting aside an allocation of diamonds for exclusive sale to citizen enterprises, helping Batswana into an industry where they have battled against more capitalised and experienced international entities.

ODC conducts 10 auctions of rough diamonds each year, attended by buyers from across the world who bid on an auction basis for the different sizes and types of stones on offer.

The company sources its diamonds from an annual 25% allocation of Debswana’s production, a figure expected to rise to 30% this year when the new deal between the government and De Beers kicks in. The ODC sells its stones on a spot auction basis, where buyers registered on its books bid for parcels on a competitive basis.

Editor's Comment
BDP primaries leave a lot to be desired

The BDP as a party known to have ample resources has always held its primaries well in time, but this time around that was not the case. The first leg of the primaries was held last weekend, with the final leg being billed for the coming weekend. This time around, the BDP failed to shine in its primary elections. The elections were chaotic; most if not all polling stations didn't open at the specified time of 6am. Loyal BDP members braved the...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up