President Boko meeting Martin Rapaport
28 Nov 2024, 9:48 am
This initiative aims to enhance traceability and transparency in the diamond supply chain, ensuring alignment with G7 import requirements, which ban Russian-origin diamonds.
The G7 implemented a ban on Russian diamonds on 1 January 2024, further extending it on 1 March 2024 to include Russian diamonds processed in third countries. In response, the first G7 certification node, capable of verifying the origin of rough diamonds and issuing G7-compliant certificates, became operational in the EU earlier this year. Now, Botswana is taking steps to establish a similar node within its borders.
Advancing Botswana’s Certification Framework
Following a comprehensive gap analysis conducted by technical teams from Botswana and Belgium, a roadmap is being developed to address alignment issues and ensure Botswana’s certification process meets G7 standards. The node is expected to be operational by 2025, enabling Botswana to certify the origin of its rough diamonds for export with greater transparency and accountability.
During his keynote address at the FACET event in Antwerp on 26 November 2024, President Duma Boko emphasized Botswana’s commitment to ethical and sustainable diamond mining. “Botswana is committed to pioneering traceability and responsible mining practices, ensuring that our diamonds not only shine in beauty but also embody integrity and ethical stewardship,” he stated.
Strengthening Botswana’s Position in the Global Diamond Market
This certification initiative is expected to solidify Botswana’s reputation as a leader in responsible diamond production, reassuring international buyers and stakeholders of the ethical provenance of its diamonds. The move is anticipated to boost investor confidence, foster economic growth, and promote sustainable practices across the diamond supply chain.
The G7 diamond technical team plans to extend similar support to other African diamond-producing nations, including Namibia and Angola, as part of its broader mission to enhance transparency and traceability in the global diamond industry.
