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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

Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM) continue to underpin the country’s diamond production capacity and the social impact of the activities, despite the pressures the sector is facing.

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.

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