His Excellency The President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi says Diamond Trading Company Botswana has contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of Botswana.
Speaking at a gala dinner to mark DTCB 50th Anniversary, Masisi said for many years government depended on expatriates to provide it with valuation services, but now DTCB has trained very capable citizens for diamond valuing and sorting.
DTCB is a 50/50 joint venture between the government of Botswana and the De Beers Group, and can sort up to 30 million carats per year. However due to prevailing and unpredictable market conditions, DTCB has been sorting about 23 to 24 million carats annually.
Masisi commended DTCB for creating and practicing an inclusive and diverse workforce as well as making gender parity a key focus, as highlighted by an executive committee which consists of 57% women.
The President said the contribution of diamonds in Botswana, generates over 80% of Export Earnings, 23% of customs revenue as well as 22% contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
