The World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) concluded its International Summit in Gaborone, Botswana, on 19 May 2026, bringing together government officials, industry leaders and stakeholders from across the global natural diamond value chain to discuss the sector’s future amid shifting market conditions and changing consumer expectations.
Held on 18-19 May in collaboration with Botswana’s Ministry of Minerals and Energy, the summit centred on the theme, “Nation-Building and the Future of Responsible Luxury.” Discussions focused on provenance, beneficiation, sustainability, transparency and value creation across diamond-producing nations and trading hubs.
A key development at the summit was the confirmation of Botswana and Angola as WFDB Nation Affiliated Members, expanding the Federation’s international representation and strengthening ties between producing countries and the global diamond trading community.
Yoram Dvash, President of WFDB, said: “Bringing together governments, producers, traders and industry leaders in Botswana reflects the increasing importance of alignment across the natural diamond sector at a time of significant change for the industry. The inclusion of Botswana and Angola further strengthens the Federation’s global representation and reinforces our shared commitment to transparency, responsibility and the long-term future of natural diamonds.”
Hon. Bogolo Kenewendo, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, said hosting the summit during the country’s 60th anniversary celebrations underscored Botswana’s role in the governance and promotion of natural diamonds and highlighted the industry’s contribution to national development. “Joining the WFDB is a further symbol of our commitment to stronger international collaboration, responsible growth and ensuring natural diamonds continue to create long-term value for our people and the wider industry,” Kenewendo said.
H.E. Dr. Diamantino Azevedo, Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, said: “Angola is committed to building a modern, transparent and globally competitive diamond sector. Joining the WFDB represents an important step in strengthening our engagement with the international trading community while supporting broader co-operation across the industry.”