A leader in Botswana’s diamond industry, Debswana has fuelled national growth through smart mine solutions, 5G-ready operations, and significant community investments across its mining sites.
“Over 55 years, we have not just mined diamonds, we’ve mined possibilities, and growth for the people of Botswana.” Andrew Maatla Motsomi, Managing Director of Debswana
As Debswana Diamond Company celebrates its 55th anniversary, its path demonstrates the transforming impact of diamond mining in Botswana. Under the direction of Managing Director Andrew Maatla Motsomi, who took over in June 2022, the firm has continued to prosper, preserving its position as one of the world’s leading diamond producers in value and volume.
Andrew Motsomi’s broad career spans three decades, including major posts at the Reserve Bank and the Bank of Botswana, where he eventually served as deputy governor. His international experience includes a special assignment at the International Monetary Fund in Washington, D.C., which reflects his extensive knowledge of economic growth and policy. Motsomi’s academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Accounting, a postgraduate Diploma in Economic Development and Planning, and a Master’s Degree in Economics, as well as executive programs from top global schools.
Debswana’s success is based on its operational excellence and use of cutting-edge technologies. “Debswana operates some of the best mining equipment and technologies globally,” Motsomi says. This dedication to technological innovation is exemplified by deploying the Huawei-enabled smart mine solution at the Jwaneng mine, the world’s first 5G-ready smart diamond mine. This system, which has been in operation since December 2021, improves safety and production by automating and monitoring mining activities in real-time. The eLTE 4G private network is now operational across all Debswana mines, including Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa, providing the steady and dependable connectivity required for contemporary mining operations.
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Debswana has been bold in adopting technology over the years, having been the first mining company to set up and operate an automated, fully integrated sorting house over two decades ago.
Debswana’s contribution to Botswana goes well beyond mining. It has been at the heart of the country’s economic growth, contributing significantly toward GDP, foreign exchange reserves, and government revenues. The money earned from diamonds has helped in the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, and other amenities. “Earnings from diamonds, mainly from Debswana, have been key in advancing critical infrastructure, job creation, education, and healthcare services in Botswana,” says Motsomi.
The company’s dedication to community development is substantial and dates back to the early 1970s, when the company started its community donations program, as it was called back then. Since 2019, Debswana has committed over P200 million (US$14.9 million) to clinics, classrooms, roads, and sports development, amongst others. It has introduced over 1,800 female students to STEM, resulting in a new generation of innovators. Debswana has also designated more than 54,500 hectares in Orapa and Jwaneng as biodiversity sanctuaries, providing habitat for thousands of plant and animal species. “Our hospitals in Orapa and Jwaneng care for more than 200,000 patients annually,” Motsomi says, emphasizing the company’s all-encompassing commitment to community welfare.
Sustainability is important to Debswana’s business strategy. The corporation is concentrating on human elements in safety, mine closure planning and restoration, conservation tourism, and strengthening its social and governance systems. “Debswana will maximize opportunities for sustainable investments, ensuring that sustainability remains integral to our business strategy,” Motsomi says. This commitment guarantees the firm retains its social license to operate and satisfies stakeholder and consumer expectations for diamond equality.
Debswana celebrates its 55th anniversary by reflecting on its important achievements and milestones. The corporation intends to connect with the community and stakeholders through a variety of activities, emphasizing its historical contributions to Botswana’s growth. “We will be sharing Debswana’s story with Batswana and encouraging them to share their diamond stories,” Motsomi says. This commemoration is about more than simply reflecting on the past; it is also about drawing inspiration for future strategic directions.
Debswana’s journey demonstrates the prospects of locating key investment hubs in Botswana. “Botswana provides peace and stability to its nationals and investors; hence, it is the right time to invest in Botswana,” Motsomi says.
As Debswana journeys into the future, it does so with a legacy of success and innovation that blazes with the luminosity of Botswana’s diamonds and the unbreakable spirit of its people.
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