President Duma Boko has praised Stargems Botswana for its strong role in advancing national development, inclusive growth, and citizen empowerment. Speaking during an official visit to the company’s diamond polishing facility, he stressed that his presence was a deliberate acknowledgment of the sector’s resilience.
“I am here to listen and acknowledge the sacrifices you have made, as well as to assure you that the Government sees you, appreciates your efforts, and is walking this journey with you,” he said.
The President highlighted Stargems’ BWP 380 million investment, 76 percent local employment rate, and the training of more than 1,100 Batswana as clear results of the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme. He said these outcomes reflected the type of growth needed to achieve the national goal of creating 100,000 jobs for citizens.
He commended the company’s work in skills transfer and local leadership development, noting the importance of dignified work and economic justice. He urged government agencies to match private sector commitment by improving service delivery, cutting bureaucratic delays, and investing in infrastructure to support industrial growth.
“We must go beyond intent. We must deliver efficient, real time support that empowers our investors and strengthens Botswana’s position as a competitive and dependable destination for business,” he said.
President Boko also drew attention to the new Diamond Marketing Strategy, which focuses on ethical sourcing, beneficiation, and building national pride in Botswana’s diamond industry.
Speaking to young professionals at the facility, he encouraged them to see their work as part of a lasting legacy. “You are not merely polishing diamonds, you are shaping a legacy. One day, I hope to see one of you return, not just as a polisher, but as the owner of your own factory.”
He closed by reaffirming his Government’s commitment to citizen centred development and praised Stargems Botswana as an example of what can be achieved when policy supports purpose.
