23 Nov 2022

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has welcomed incoming De Beers Group chief executive officer (CEO) Mr Al Cook who assumes office early next year.

He takes over from Mr Bruce Cleaver who has been the group’s CEO since 2016, having joined it in 2005.

During a meet and greet session held in Gaborone yesterday, President Masisi expressed gratitude to Mr Cleaver for the great work he had done for Botswana and De Beers Group.

Dr Masisi pointed out that Mr Cook was coming in at a time when trade negotiations between government and De Beers Group were at an advanced stage and awaiting ratification.

“You will find very good support in the former minister and chairperson of De Beers Botswana Mr Neo Moroka, he has vast experience. It’s not often that you find a company representative that has that level of not only leverage and access but resolve. We have a healthy relationship,” said President Dr Masisi.

Responding, Mr Cook said he fully understood what De Beers meant to Botswana.

A geologist,  he disclosed that he had 27 years energy sector experience with the last seven spent running the international part of Norway’s national energy company.

Mr Cook said he hoped to continue drawing further experience from his predecessor, Mr Cleaver.

The brief session was attended by Mr Moroka, Anglo American Group CEO, Mr Duncan Wanblad and Mr Cleaver. ENDS