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De Beers has kicked off a weekend of celebration to mark its 45 year partnership with the Government of the Republic of Botswana (GRB) – better known as Debswana – with activities including a Gala Dinner and a diamond festival.

But what are we celebrating?

Debswana and its impact on Botswana

Our story begins back in 1967 with the discovery of diamonds at Letlhakane and Orapa, which led to De Beers and GRB forming the De Beers Botswana Mining Company, later known as Debswana, in 1969.

What followed was fruitful operation that spanned five decades, which strongly contributed to the development of Botswana as a country.

Debswana and its impact on Botswana

Indeed, Debswana is the single largest contributor to the country’s gross domestic product, export earnings and government revenues, and is the largest private employer in Botswana, responsible for over 11,000 jobs.

But supporting economic growth in the region doesn’t stop there.

In November 2013, Debswana launched the Tokafala enterprise development programme (in conjunction with Anglo American, GRB and De Beers), which promotes the growth of micro, small and medium-sized companies. The programme supports small enterprises so that they can grow into commercially viable businesses by improving market access, establishing supply chains and providing finance for loans.

The health of the local community is a key focus too. Debswana runs two private hospitals in Orapa and Jwaneng, which care for employees, their families and members of the community. It also runs two private schools, at Jwaneng and Orapa, which educate children of mine employees and the general public.

As you can see, there’s a lot to celebrate.

Debswana not only operates some of the world’s most famous and high value diamond mines: Damtshaa, Jwaneng, Letlhakane and Orapa, but it has helped build and develop local communities to ensure a bright future is enjoyed by all.

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