This week, I spoke with Botswana president Duma Boko 🇧🇼 and the country’s minister of minerals and energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, during the World Federation of Diamond Bourses’ presidents’ meeting in NYC.
Their message was clear: Botswana wants a bigger spotlight—not just in the diamond trade, but in the hearts of U.S. consumers ❤️.
✨ Duma Boko, President of Botswana
“I was educated thanks to revenues from natural diamonds,” he said. “They sent me to Harvard Law. I came back to teach law and serve my country.” His dream? To rewrite Botswana’s narrative—through diamonds.
🔍 He said the JCK Las Vegas show was full of people “looking for clarity and ethics,” all aiming to keep diamonds as symbols of meaning.
💎 As for in-country manufacturing, Boko reaffirmed Botswana’s principle: diamonds should be cut and polished locally. No new laws—just a push to expand what’s already working.
🏛️ He also mentioned possible diamond museums and storytelling initiatives to help consumers connect with the people behind each gem.
📈 A new contract with De Beers is now fueling “diamonds for development” programs, bringing funding for social projects, skills development, and local entrepreneurship.
🥹 “Love cannot be grown in a lab,” Boko repeated.
And yes, he invites you to visit Botswana. “You’ll fall in love,” he promised.
✨ Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy
Lucara’s warning? “They’re holding strong,” she said. “They believe in a rebound.”
She also welcomed De Beers’ decision to shut down Lightbox: “You can’t trade in our best gems and sell synthetics.”
💼 Under the new agreement, Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) will introduce contract sales—expected to stabilize the market and attract new players.
📣 For consumers, Botswana’s strategy includes working with luxury brands and the Natural Diamond Council to roll out Botswana-specific campaigns. There will be trading missions, safari-style diamond tourism, and storytelling.
🌱 Aiming for carbon neutrality, she hinted at real green diamonds.
“When you get a Botswana diamond,” she said, “you’re getting the best—in quality, value, and the lives it touches.”