Botswana is making notable progress in diversifying its mining industry following several promising mineral discoveries across the country. For decades the nation has relied heavily on diamonds as the backbone of its mining economy. Recent exploration activities are now revealing significant deposits of other valuable minerals, which could transform the country’s resource landscape. The new discoveries include copper, graphite and iron ore, all of which are important for global manufacturing and emerging clean energy technologies. These developments are strengthening Botswana’s position as a potential supplier of strategic minerals while supporting efforts to broaden the national economy.
The announcement of these developments was made in Parliament by Bogolo Kenewendo during the Committee of Supply. She informed lawmakers that several advanced exploration projects are progressing and are already uncovering substantial mineral resources. According to the minister, these discoveries are not only valuable for their economic potential but also for improving the understanding of Botswana’s geological structure. Detailed exploration work is helping scientists and industry experts map mineral rich regions across the country. This research contributes to long term planning for mining investment and sustainable resource management.
One of the most significant projects currently underway is located in the Kalahari Copper Belt, where exploration activities are being led by Cobre Limited. The company operates locally through its subsidiaries Kitlanya (Pty) Ltd and Triprop Holdings (Pty) Ltd. The project is targeting a mineral resource of approximately 11.5 million tonnes with an average grade of 0.52 percent copper in the Ngami area. This exploration work is supported through a partnership with BHP under the Xplor programme. Copper is a critical component in renewable energy technologies, electrical infrastructure and manufacturing, making this discovery particularly important for future industrial development.
Another promising development involves a major graphite discovery near Tonota. The project is being developed by Tonota Resources Limited through its subsidiary Q Pene (Pty) Ltd. Early exploration estimates suggest the deposit contains about 137 million tonnes of graphite with an average grade of 6.5 percent Total Graphite Carbon across a 20 kilometre strike length. Graphite is a key material used in the production of lithium ion batteries that power electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Initial testing indicates that the material may be suitable for producing spherical graphite, a high value product used in advanced battery technology.
Botswana has also recorded a significant iron ore discovery through exploration activities led by Tsodilo Resources Limited. The company operates locally through Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Ltd and has identified extensive iron ore deposits at the Xaudum Iron Project. Exploration results show iron grades reaching up to 70 percent across a strike zone measuring approximately 35 kilometres. The project already has an estimated inferred mineral resource of 441 million tonnes, highlighting its potential scale. Iron ore remains a critical raw material for steel production and infrastructure development worldwide.
Minister Kenewendo explained that these discoveries could significantly strengthen Botswana’s mineral sector and contribute to long term economic growth. She noted that expanding exploration activities allows the country to better understand its mineral potential while creating new opportunities for investment and industrial development. The discoveries also align with the global shift toward minerals that support renewable energy systems and modern technologies. As global demand for these resources continues to rise, Botswana could position itself as an important supplier in emerging mineral markets. These developments reflect the country’s strategic efforts to diversify its resource base.
Reducing reliance on diamonds remains a key priority for Botswana’s economic planners. While diamonds have provided decades of revenue and national development, diversification is essential for long term economic stability. Exploring new minerals such as copper, graphite and iron ore creates opportunities for job creation, infrastructure development and export growth. It also strengthens Botswana’s ability to participate in global supply chains connected to clean energy technologies and industrial manufacturing. By expanding exploration and encouraging investment in new mineral projects, Botswana is building a more resilient mining sector that supports sustainable economic progress.
