In his inaugural address at the ongoing JCK Diamond Trade Show and Convention in Las Vegas, Botswana President Duma Boko has underscored the transformative role of diamonds in Botswana’s journey toward sustainable and inclusive prosperity. Expressing gratitude, Boko remarked that diamonds have not only contributed to Botswana’s economic growth but have also helped fund vital infrastructure, schools, and opportunities for generations.
Reflecting on the past five decades, Boko noted that Botswana had played a quiet yet crucial role in the global diamond industry, with diamonds marking life’s treasured moments and supporting national development.
He celebrated the recent agreement between the Botswana government and De Beers, which will gradually increase Botswana’s share in rough diamond production from 30% to 50% by 2035. Boko emphasised that the deal brings “significant benefits for local skills development and infrastructure,” contributing to Botswana’s vision of becoming a hub for ethical luxury and innovation.
Boko also stressed ongoing reforms to modernise Botswana’s investment climate by removing bureaucratic hurdles and creating a transparent, investor-friendly environment. He highlighted Botswana’s strong credit rating—the highest in Africa—as a foundation, but not the end goal, for attracting global investment.
Calling Botswana open for investment, Boko outlined targeted economic incentives aimed at high-potential sectors such as luxury goods, tourism, and green technology.
“We want consumers around the world to see our diamonds and immediately appreciate that it is a natural diamond,” Boko stated, emphasising the rarity, authenticity, and human connection of Botswana’s diamonds—”shaped by nature, and connected to real people.”
