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Gaborone slowly takes centre stage in global diamond world

One voice: Masisi, Cleaver and Moagi on Monday PIC: BWPRESIDENCY
One voice: Masisi, Cleaver and Moagi on Monday PIC: BWPRESIDENCY

Ten more cutting and polishing factories are due to open this year in the country, while 85 member states of the world’s leading diamond group are this week due to endorse Botswana to host their secretariat. Staff Writer, MBONGENI MGUNI reports that after years of campaigning, Botswana is gradually becoming the global hub for diamonds

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.

Editor's Comment
Depression is real; let's take care of our mental health

It is not uncommon in this part of the world for parents to actually punish their children when they show signs of depression associating it with issues of indiscipline, and as a result, the poor child will be lashed or given some kind of punishment. We have had many suicide cases in the country and sadly some of the cases included children and young adults. We need to start looking into issues of mental health with the seriousness it...

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