The board and members of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) congratulated the Government of Botswana and the De Beers Group of Companies upon reaching an agreement in principle on a new ten-year sales agreement for Debswana’s rough diamond production to 2033 and new 25-year Debswana mining licenses through to 2054.
IDMA President Ronnie VanderLinden said, “We are very pleased that after years of preparations and negotiations, the Batswana government and De Beers succeeded in increasing the share of Debswana supply sold via Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) to 50% of the agreement, securing Debswana position for decades to come.”
VanderLinden said that it is encouraging to see that the agreement includes a detailed plan to guarantee the sustainable development of the Batswana diamond mining industry and foresees creating the potential for tens of thousands of new jobs in Botswana, both within an expanded Botswana-based diamond industry and emerging sectors, with a focus on supporting the growth of a knowledge-based economy.
“We’re eagerly looking forward to understanding what this means for Botswana’s diamond manufacturing capabilities and plans. Our members hope to participate in this exciting and promising process actively!” he stated.
“Once again, we send our best wishes to the people of Botswana and the De Beers Group for taking our industry forward, offering great hope for a beneficial future for all.”