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Botswana eyes new mining riches amid diamond downturn

By Editor TO·
Large mining trucks in Africa showcase the continent's growing mining industry.

Botswana and Ghana highlight Africa’s inward-moving mining agenda and resource development.

Botswana is launching an ambitious plan to explore the 70% of its territory that remains geologically uncharted, aiming to diversify beyond its struggling diamond sector. With the global diamond market facing a prolonged downturn, the government is prioritizing the search for critical minerals and other high-value resources through a new state-owned exploration company. This strategic pivot seeks to reduce economic reliance on diamonds, which traditionally contribute about a third of national revenue. The initiative has already attracted international interest, with the US engaging in early discussions about potential partnerships in exploration and mining. This move marks a significant shift toward securing Botswana’s economic future by unlocking its vast, untapped mineral potential.

CNBC Africa