Debswana: Leading Botswana’s Diamond Story at FACETS Conference

Gaborone, Botswana – Recently, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre invited experts, retailers, traders, and other stakeholders to gather in the world's oldest stock exchange, located in the heart of Antwerp, to discuss the future of the diamond industry under the theme “Navigating a New Era in the Diamond Industry.”

President Duma Boko attended the FACETS 2024 conference to deliver a keynote address and emphasize the importance of genuine partnerships for development. His speech set the tone for meaningful dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing the diamond industry. "As we navigate this new era in the diamond industry, we must embrace innovation and sustainability. We are committed to ensuring that every diamond mined in Botswana contributes positively to the nation," said His Excellency Duma Boko, President of Botswana, at the recent Facets conference.

For over fifty years, Botswana’s diamonds have been more than mere stones; they have been storytellers of progress and shared prosperity. Debswana, a joint venture between the Government of Botswana and De Beers, has been at the heart of this journey, representing a bold partnership that has transformed Botswana’s natural wealth into clinics, schools, roads, and countless opportunities for its people. Diamonds are deeply woven into the fabric of Botswana’s identity.

Modern consumers are looking for more than just a beautiful stone; they want transparency, ethical sourcing, and the story behind each diamond. With the rise of lab-grown diamonds and the increasing demand for sustainable practices, the industry faces significant pressures. To thrive in this environment, Debswana is dedicated to implementing fresh ideas, responsible practices, and fostering a commitment to shared growth.

Debswana is committed to not only adapting but leading in this new landscape through sustainability and innovation. The Jwaneng Underground Project, known as “the King of Mines,” exemplifies this commitment. This ambitious expansion will secure thousands of jobs and extend Jwaneng’s life by decades, providing a steady economic heartbeat for Botswana. Similarly, the Orapa Cut 3 Project aims to maximize resources from one of the world’s oldest and most productive diamond mines, bringing new opportunities to the people of Orapa and adding a new chapter to Botswana’s story.

Beyond mining, the Botswana government is dedicated to empowering its citizens. The Economic Inclusion Act is transforming value chains across sectors, including mining, opening doors for citizen-owned businesses. Through local procurement, job creation, and skills development, the diamond sector is helping build an economically resilient, diversified, and self-sustaining future for Botswana.

As we enter the digital era, Debswana is pioneering advances in mining technology. From artificial intelligence to data analytics, the company is making mining more efficient, safer, and sustainable. Debswana’s commitment to innovation shows that Botswana is not just keeping up with change but driving it.

As Botswana navigates this new era, it remains resolute in its vision: diamonds as a force for good, a driver of transformation, and a catalyst for change. Debswana and the Botswana government are crafting a future where its diamond legacy is not just about stones but about shared prosperity, ethical stewardship, and hope for the world. In Botswana, diamonds will always shine brightly, not just on rings or necklaces, but in the hearts of the people, the spirit of the communities, and the dreams held for generations to come.