Debswana: 48 years as Botswanas engine of growth

It was almost five decades ago on Monday June 23, 1969 when De Beers Botswana Mining Company was born. At that time, it would have been impossible to predict that the same company would develop to become the mainstay of the countrys economy or that it would transform the country from one of the poorest in the world to one of upper-middle income status. BusinessWeek Staffer PAULINE DIKUELO reflects on the transformation of the company celebrating 48 years of existence

Since its inception Debswana has played a major role in the history of Botswana’s development throughout its 48-year history.

Proceeds from diamonds have been used prudently to improve the lives of Batswana through the building of schools, roads and healthcare facilities.

Editor's Comment
Get back what was stolen, and lock the door

That a single private law firm pocketed P6.5 million for just four cases, out of a total P11.1 million paid for 25 matters, reeks of a system that was not merely disorganised but open to abuse.Bayford has taken a welcome first step by telling the Public Accounts Committee the truth. Now he must act decisively to ensure it never happens again and that any money lost to wrongdoing is recovered.The figures are staggering. Whilst ordinary Batswana...

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