Botswana Mining Review Comprehensive Coverage of the Progress and Achievements in the Mining Sector
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Standing on the brink of a historic milestone, the government of Botswana is set to finalise a diamond sales agreement with De Beers, the world’s leading diamond company. Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025, President Duma Boko expressed confidence in the near-completion of the deal, highlighting the importance of securing terms that align with Botswana’s sustainable development goals. Boko further expressed optimism about the deal, noting that while most terms have been agreed upon, final touches are being added to ensure the agreement serves Botswana’s best interests.
“De Beers has been a valuable partner, serving us well in the past. Hopefully, we will finalise the agreement tomorrow. However, we are negotiating for a bigger share of the benefits, focusing on fairer terms that reflect our evolving aspirations,” said Boko. Key to these aspirations is the government’s commitment to in-country beneficiation by processing raw diamonds locally to export high-value finished products. This approach is expected to significantly boost revenue and create critical job opportunities, particularly for Botswana’s youth.
Beyond diamonds, Boko shared that the country is diversifying its mining portfolio, tapping into its vast reserves of copper and nickel. These minerals are essential for the manufacturing of batteries, placing Botswana in a prime position to contribute to the global green energy transition. The government plans to leverage these resources to address fiscal pressures while securing Botswana’s place as a leading player in sustainable mining.
Boko also outlined investments in renewable energy projects such as mini grids, data centres, and solar farms. These initiatives aim to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and create employment opportunities, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. In parallel, Botswana is embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to drive innovation across critical sectors. “We are engaging with investors here at the World Economic Forum to explore how digital innovations, including AI, can transform our industries. AI will help us deploy resources more efficiently, boost productivity and generate increased revenue,” revealed Boko.
These strategic initiatives in mining, renewable energy and AI-driven technology signal a transformative period for Botswana. As the nation charts a path towards innovation, diversification and inclusivity, it is not only empowering its people but also cementing its position in the global economy.
