Botswana has a long standing association with the beautiful jewels of natural diamonds. From its discovery in the region in the late 1960s, the country has utilised its deposits for the benefit of its local communities and the ecological environment. This has resulted in the country rising to the top as the number one diamond producer in the world. Globally recognized diamond giants such as De Beers have a prevalent presence in the area, taking up several ecological and social initiatives for the betterment of their employees and the local communities and ecological life around their mines and factories. This makes diamonds from this country popular among consumers who are mindful of how their diamonds are produced. Here are few positive impacts of diamond industry on the communities in Botswana
Empowering local communities:
Natural diamonds now symbolise a long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship between diamond producers and local communities, going beyond just valuable heirlooms. They are favoured due to their great worth and sentimental significance. Beyond the glamour and luxury, diamond mines benefit the local communities in which they are situated. For example, the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), a global authority on all things natural diamonds, and its members have pledged support for the UN’s sustainable development goals, which include giving local communities employment opportunities and equipping them with the skills to work in various diamond processing fields.
Ecological conservation and development:
Natural diamond firms begin collaborating with the local authorities before the mine is even opened. NDC and its members promise to protect 3 acres for every acre they mine, setting an excellent example. The development of resources, the preservation of biodiversity, and the security of the surrounding area and indigenous communities are all included in the comprehensive strategy for ecological protection. The mines implement programmes that advance the economic status and educational levels of the communities that surround the mine and the locals who work in the mine by establishing symbiotic connections with local governments.
Educating population:
The options for people to pursue education are significantly impacted by diamond profits. There were only three secondary schools in the entire nation of Botswana in 1966, the year when diamonds were first discovered there. Today, there are roughly 285 thanks to the profits from diamonds. Additionally, all children up to the age of 13 are given free education. Diamond mines work collaboratively with local authorities and indigenous groups to preserve the important history of the country they operate in. To understand the impact that the diamond industry has on the education of local communities, Lily James, the global brand ambassador of NDC went to visit various schools and education centres which were sponsored by the natural diamond industry. There she interacted and conversed with the female heroes of the diamond industry while also understanding the involvement of the industry at the grassroot level. While conserving the history and traditions of these communities, these agreements and practises maximise the benefits of social, health, and educational services.
Aids in economic development:
Every diamond purchase contributes to improving living circumstances, healthcare, access to clean water, and the construction of more roads to link isolated villages. Botswana quickly transitioned from a low-income to a middle-income nation with the aid of diamonds. About 60-85% of Botswana’s export earnings, 25% of its GDP, and 1/3 of its government revenue came from the sale of diamonds in 2019. They have contributed to the construction of roads, hospitals, and schools as well as jobs.
