At independence in 1966, Botswana was one of Africa’s poorest countries, and since the inception of the Botswana / De Beers partnership, it has emerged onto the world stage as a middle income country.  From economic growth to infrastructure, and education to healthcare, Debswana has been a major driver in realising this extraordinary achievement.

In 1966, Botswana had only three secondary schools, 22 university graduates, few assets and just three kilometers of tarred road. However, as a result of the visionary leadership of His Excellency Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana has, during the past four decades, one of the highest economic growth rates in the world.  Today, a nation-wide digital telephone network in Botswana now exists with approximately 5,000 km of fibre optic cable.  There are more than 300 secondary schools in Botswana, and the revenue from diamonds enables every child in Botswana to receive free schooling until the age of 13.  Beyond primary school, education is 95% funded by the government. 

Debswana has driven job growth in Botswana, with 25% of employment in the country directly or indirectly linked to diamonds.  Debswana employs around 6,000 staff and is the largest single employer in Botswana, after government.  Producing approximately $3.2bn worth of diamonds each year, diamonds account for 76% of Botswana’s export revenue, 45% of government revenue and 33% of GDP. 

In addition, as a member of the communities in which it operates, Debswana realised the tragic and debilitating potential of HIV / AIDS.  It was the first mining company in the world to offer free anti-retroviral treatment to employees, their spouses, and their children, as part of a comprehensive disease management programme, which existed outside of a medical insurance scheme. 

As former President Festus Mogae said in June 2006 “For our people, every diamond purchase represents food on the table, better living conditions, better healthcare, safe drinking water, more roads to connect our remote communities and much more.”

Business thrives in an environment of political stability, transparency and predictability.  Although, like many other businesses in the country, Debswana’s success comes as a result of this benign environment, it has also flourished in an environment of partnership that is based on mutual trust, respect and a shared vision that what benefits business can, and should, also benefit society.

Nicky Oppenheimer, Chairman of De Beers, remarked recently “Debswana has a bright future. It is built on the shared commitment to turn Botswana’s national resources into national assets, the unflinching dedication of its Batswana employees, and its resilience in the face of even the strongest of storms. It is the bedrock of a wonderful bond which De Beers has with the people of Botswana. Long may it continue!”

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About De Beers:
De Beers, established in 1888, is the world’s leading rough diamond company with unrivalled expertise in the exploration, mining and marketing of diamonds. De Beers, and its joint venture partners, operate in more than 20 countries across five continents employing around 17,000 people. From its mining operations across Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Canada, De Beers produces and markets approximately 40 percent of the world’s supply of rough diamonds. As part of the company’s operating philosophy, the people of De Beers are committed to Living up to Diamonds by making a lasting contribution to the communities in which they live and work. In the countries in which we have mining operations, this means carrying out profitable business, whilst at the same time helping Governments achieve their aspirations of turning natural resources into shared national wealth. De Beers encourages sustainable working to ensure long-term positive development for Africa, and returns approximately US$4.7 billion to the continent every year. For further information about De Beers visit www.debeersgroup.com

Contact: Chipo Morapedi
De Beers Botswana
Tel:  +267 3615 205
Fax: +267 390 9569
Email: Chipo.morapedi@debeersgroup.com