Orapa powers Botswana diamond production
Friday, September 26, 2025 | 380 Views |
Old Faithful: Orapa was the country’s first diamond mine and continues to deliver PIC: THALEFANG CHARLES
OLDM General Manager, Mogakolodi Maoketsa, said the industry has been challenged by the increasing appeal of synthetic diamonds, higher extraction costs, and slower economic growth in major markets.
“People are buying synthetic diamonds at lower prices, and the global economy is struggling. That is why our sales have dropped,” he said.
That should concern every Motswana. The implications extend far beyond cattle and farmers. Botswana’s beef industry is a critical pillar of the economy, supporting thousands of households and sustaining businesses along the value chain.The loss of access to lucrative export markets has already demonstrated how quickly an animal-health crisis can become an economic crisis.This is, therefore, not the time for complacency, blame, or political...