Botswana’s internationally recognised diamond industry continues to attract global attention as countries seek to learn from its successful approach to mineral beneficiation, transparency and value addition. A delegation from Côte d’Ivoire recently visited Worldwide Diamond Manufacturing Botswana (WDM-B) and the Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) to gain a deeper understanding of how Botswana has built one of the world’s most respected diamond industries. The visit formed part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two African nations while promoting knowledge sharing in the mining sector. By examining Botswana’s diamond cutting, polishing and marketing processes, the delegation gained valuable insights into how natural resources can contribute to sustainable economic development. The exchange also highlighted the growing importance of regional partnerships in developing Africa’s mineral resources through innovation, investment and skills development.
The visit began at Worldwide Diamond Manufacturing Botswana, where the delegation received a detailed presentation outlining the company’s operations before touring its state-of-the-art cutting and polishing facility. The presentation provided an overview of the company’s role within Botswana’s diamond value chain and explained how rough diamonds are transformed into high-quality polished stones ready for international markets. Delegates were given the opportunity to observe each stage of the manufacturing process and witness the advanced technology and precision required in modern diamond processing. The tour offered valuable first-hand exposure to the expertise that has helped establish Botswana as a global leader in diamond beneficiation. It also demonstrated how investment in technology and skilled human capital contributes to increased value creation within the mining industry.
Observing the cutting and polishing process allowed the visiting delegation to appreciate the complexity involved in transforming rough diamonds into finished gemstones. Every stage requires highly trained professionals, specialised equipment and strict quality control measures to maximise the value of each stone. Botswana’s emphasis on developing local expertise has enabled the country to expand beyond diamond mining into downstream manufacturing activities that generate additional economic benefits. This value addition strategy creates employment opportunities, supports skills development and strengthens the country’s position within the global diamond supply chain. The delegation’s visit provided practical examples of how strategic investment in beneficiation can increase the economic returns generated from natural resources.
During the presentation, WDM Botswana Chief Operations Africa, Mr. Shukoor Mohammad, explained that the company is one of Botswana’s leading diamond cutting and polishing firms. He highlighted the company’s commitment to maintaining high manufacturing standards while supporting the country’s broader economic development objectives. Beyond cutting and polishing, Mr. Mohammad explained that WDM Botswana offers a comprehensive range of specialised services designed to support governments, mining companies and private investors. These services include diamond sorting, valuation, factory management, technical consultancy and professional training programmes. By providing technical expertise across multiple areas of the diamond industry, the company contributes to the continued growth and competitiveness of Botswana’s mining sector.
The specialised services offered by WDM Botswana demonstrate the importance of knowledge transfer in building sustainable mining industries. Training programmes and technical consultancy enable governments and businesses to strengthen their own diamond operations while developing skilled workforces capable of supporting long-term growth. Diamond valuation and sorting services also play an important role in ensuring that gemstones are accurately assessed before entering international markets. These capabilities enhance efficiency throughout the value chain while promoting confidence among investors and industry stakeholders. The company’s integrated approach reflects Botswana’s commitment to maximising value from its natural resources through expertise, innovation and continuous capacity building.
Following the visit to WDM Botswana, the delegation proceeded to the Okavango Diamond Company, where Acting Managing Director Ms. Lipalesa Makepe outlined the organisation’s role in marketing Botswana’s natural diamonds. She explained that the company serves as a key institution responsible for promoting transparency and ensuring that Botswana receives maximum value from the sale of its diamonds. Rather than relying solely on traditional sales channels, ODC markets diamonds through international auctions that encourage competitive bidding and transparent pricing. This approach helps optimise revenue while strengthening confidence among international buyers and investors. It also reinforces Botswana’s reputation as a country committed to responsible resource management and good governance.
Ms. Makepe further explained that the Okavango Diamond Company plays an important role in supporting national development through beneficiation and citizen empowerment. Revenue generated from diamond sales contributes to public investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other national priorities that improve the lives of citizens. Beneficiation policies also encourage more value addition to take place within Botswana, creating employment opportunities and supporting local businesses connected to the mining sector. Citizen empowerment remains a central objective, ensuring that the country’s natural resources generate broad economic benefits rather than serving only international markets. This balanced approach has become one of Botswana’s defining strengths within the global diamond industry.
The delegation concluded its visit with a tour of ODC’s facilities, where members observed Botswana’s diamond marketing operations first-hand. Seeing the marketing process in operation allowed delegates to better understand how transparency, accountability and efficient sales systems contribute to the success of Botswana’s diamond industry. The tour also demonstrated the importance of integrating mining, manufacturing and marketing into a single value chain that maximises national returns from natural resources. By combining these different elements, Botswana has created a diamond industry that extends well beyond extraction to include value addition, skills development and international marketing. This integrated model has attracted growing interest from countries seeking to strengthen their own mining sectors.
The visit comes shortly after Botswana and Côte d’Ivoire signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Mining, Oil and Energy on 30 July 2026. The agreement establishes a framework for stronger cooperation between the two countries across several strategic sectors. It promotes knowledge exchange, increased investment opportunities and closer collaboration in developing mineral resources while encouraging sustainable economic growth. The Memorandum of Understanding also provides a platform for sharing technical expertise, best practices and innovative approaches to resource management. Such partnerships demonstrate how African countries can work together to strengthen industries that contribute significantly to national development.
Knowledge sharing has become increasingly important as countries seek to maximise the value of their natural resources while promoting inclusive economic growth. Botswana’s experience illustrates that successful mining industries require more than mineral wealth alone. Effective governance, investment in skills, transparent marketing systems and value addition all play essential roles in creating long-term prosperity. By learning from Botswana’s achievements, Côte d’Ivoire can identify strategies that support the development of its own mining sector while adapting successful practices to its national priorities. These exchanges also strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between African nations committed to sustainable development.
The recent visit by the Côte d’Ivoire delegation reflects the growing recognition of Botswana as a leader in responsible diamond beneficiation and resource management. From observing advanced diamond cutting and polishing operations at WDM Botswana to understanding transparent marketing systems at the Okavango Diamond Company, delegates gained valuable insights into every stage of Botswana’s successful diamond value chain. Combined with the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, the visit marks an important step towards deeper collaboration in mining, investment and knowledge exchange between the two countries. As Botswana continues to demonstrate how natural resources can drive industrial development and citizen empowerment, its experience offers a valuable model for other African nations seeking to maximise the economic and social benefits of their mineral wealth.
