Gaborone slowly takes centre stage in global diamond world
Friday, November 04, 2022 | 1730 Views |
One voice: Masisi, Cleaver and Moagi on Monday PIC: BWPRESIDENCY
According to official statistics from the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, in 2021 Botswana was the world’s leading rough diamond producer by value, with output measured at $4.7 billion (P63 billion), comfortably ahead of rivals such as Russia, Canada, and Angola.
In terms of volume, however, Russia led the pack in 2021, producing 39.1 million carats, followed by 22.9 million for Botswana.
That sounds like good news. But the report also warns that this may simply be because our digital economy is still young, not because we are safe. As more people shop, bank and pay online, criminals will follow.We Batswana do not need a report to tell us that danger is real. Many of us have heard of or fallen victim to KYC scams. A caller impersonates your bank or mobile money provider. They say they need to “verify” your account. They ask...