The Diamond Empowerment Fund hosted an exclusive premiere of the soon-to-be-released motion picture ‘A United Kingdom’, which traces the story of the rise of Botswana, at a special event in the US. The film chronicles the early years of Botswana’s rise from poverty to become what is now the second largest producer of diamonds in the world, DEF said.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were H.E. Mr. David John Newman, Ambassador of the Republic of Boswana to the Unied States, H.E. Mr. Charles T. Ntwaagae, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Botswana and Dr. Edgar Sisa, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Botswana to the United Nations.

The event was addressed by D.E.F Board member Marcus ter Haar, who is also the grandson of the films’ protagonists Seretse Khama (played by David Oyelowo) and Ruth Williams (played by Rosamund Pike). He gave a poignant introduction to the film, recounting the emotional connection he has with the film’s characters and drawing an arc of the prosperity Botswana has seen in the 50 years since the movie’s end. He said, “Through the ethical leadership and wise management of Botswana’s diamond resources by Seretse Khama and the country’s successive Presidents, our nation has thrived politically and economically as the oldest democracy in Africa, providing its citizens with broad based access to education, healthcare and world class infrastructure.

Anna Martin, newly elected president of the Diamond Empowerment Fund, urged all members of the diamond industry to see this film. “Botswana is a perfect example to share with colleagues and customers alike how much Diamonds Do Good. This positive message needs to be the cornerstone of industry communications to the public so that a more balanced narrative surrounding diamonds can prevail.”

The sponsors of the screening included Signet (Kay Jewelers, Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, Zales), GIA and Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Pic caption: Dignitaries at the screening