19 May 2026

Botswana’s admission into the World Federation Diamond Bourses (WFDB) signals the country’s intention to strengthen its role in diamond trade facilitation, market connectivity and trusted trading ecosystems. 

This was said by Minister of Minerals and Enegry, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo during the WFDB Summit in Gaborone on Monday, where she announced Botswana’s admission into WFDB.

 She said Botswana was admitted through the Botswana Mercantile Exchange and the Botswana Diamond hub.

She said the membership would enable Botswana work closely with global industry partners in reigniting the diamond sector while positioning the country as a leading international diamond trading hub.

Also, Ms Kenewendo said the development reflected Botswana’s growing ambition, not only to mine diamonds, but also to contribute meaningfully to the institutions and systems shaping the future of the industry.

“In an evolving global market, the future competitiveness of natural diamonds will increasingly depend not only on production but also on trust, traceability, governance, efficient market systems and credible trading frameworks,” she said.

She further called for stronger cooperation within the diamond sector, saying restoring trust and confidence in the industry required an end to siloed approaches and greater intentional collaboration.  

“There is need for concerted, intentional industry collaboration,” she said.

WFDB president, Mr Dvash described Botswana’s admission as a necessary partnership that would help connect diamond producers with international trading circuits. 

He revealed that discussions on Botswana becoming a nation-affiliated WFDB member began six months ago in New York City. 

Established in 1947, the WFDB represents the world’s major diamond bourses and promotes the interests of its members, comprising more than 28 780 bourse members across 27 bourses worldwide. ENDS