17 Aug 2021

Diamonds mined in Botswana will now be processed in the country and this includes sorting, valuing, processing and marketing, among other things.

This follows the passing of the Precious and Semi-Precious Stones (Protection) Act of 2021 by Parliament recently.

The act also provides for introduction of stiffer penalties to enhance the protection and integrity of the Botswana diamond industry and to curb the illicit trade in diamonds.

It also provides for the minister to authorise any person to exercise powers of inspection in relation to any precious stones protection area or security area involving rough or uncut precious stones under the act.

In addition, the act provides for allowing a licensed precious stones dealer to sort or value precious stones, while other sections of the Act places an obligation on a producer to notify the minister of possession of rough or uncut precious stones.

Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security, Mr Lefoko Moagi stated that the act would ensure optimal citizen participation in the diamond value chain. The act would effect once the President has appended his signature. ENDS