The history of diamond mining in Botswana is a significant chapter in the country’s development and economic transformation. Here’s an overview of the key events and milestones:
1. Early Exploration and Discovery (1950s – 1960s)
- Initial Exploration: The search for diamonds in Botswana began in earnest in the 1950s, driven by the success of diamond discoveries in neighbouring South Africa.
- Discovery of Orapa (1967): In 1967, geologists from De Beers, a leading diamond mining company, discovered the Orapa diamond mine in the central part of Botswana. This discovery was pivotal, as it marked the beginning of Botswana’s diamond mining industry. The Orapa mine would later become the world’s largest diamond-producing mine by area.
2. Development of the Industry (1970s – 1980s)
- Formation of Debswana (1969): To manage and develop the Orapa mine, the government of Botswana partnered with De Beers to form Debswana Diamond Company in 1969. This joint venture was split 50/50 between the Botswana government and De Beers, ensuring that the country benefited directly from its diamond resources.
- Opening of Orapa Mine (1971): The Orapa Mine officially commenced production in 1971. It quickly became a major source of revenue for Botswana, significantly contributing to the national economy.
- Discovery of Jwaneng Mine (1973): In 1973, another significant discovery was made with the Jwaneng diamond mine, located in the southern part of the country. Jwaneng would become the richest diamond mine in the world in terms of the value of the diamonds produced.
3. Economic Transformation (1980s – 2000s)
- Expansion of the Diamond Industry: Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Botswana’s diamond industry expanded, with the country becoming one of the top diamond producers globally. The revenues from diamonds were channelled into various national development projects, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
- Jwaneng Mine Begins Operation (1982): The Jwaneng Mine began operations in 1982 and rapidly became the cornerstone of Botswana’s diamond production. Its high-quality diamonds brought in substantial revenue.
- Diversification Efforts: The government of Botswana, aware of the risks associated with dependence on a single resource, began efforts to diversify the economy. However, diamonds remained the dominant force in the economy.
4. Modern Era and Global Impact (2000s – Present)
- Relocation of Diamond Sorting and Sales (2000s): In 2013, De Beers moved its diamond sorting and sales operations from London to Gaborone, Botswana’s capital. This move was a significant boost to the local economy and positioned Botswana as a central hub in the global diamond trade.
- Sustainable Mining Practices: In recent years, there has been a focus on sustainable mining practices, with Debswana and the Botswana government working to ensure that diamond mining benefits the country long-term, both economically and environmentally.
- Challenges and Future Prospects: The diamond industry in Botswana faces challenges, including fluctuating global demand, competition from synthetic diamonds, and the finite nature of diamond resources. Nevertheless, the government continues to invest in technology and exploration to extend the life of its diamond mines and diversify the economy further.
Impact on Botswana’s Development
- Economic Growth: Diamonds have been the cornerstone of Botswana’s economy, transforming it from one of the poorest countries in the world at independence in 1966 to a middle-income country.
- Social Development: Revenues from diamond mining have been crucial in funding public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, significantly improving the quality of life in Botswana.
- Political Stability: The diamond industry has also contributed to Botswana’s political stability by providing consistent economic growth and reducing poverty levels.
Conclusion
The history of diamond mining in Botswana is a story of remarkable transformation. From the discovery of diamonds in the 1960s to becoming one of the world’s leading diamond producers, Botswana’s success in managing its diamond resources has been a model of how natural resources can be used to foster national development and improve the lives of its citizens.
