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
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...

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