Botswana’s diamond stockpile swells as gem price slump persists

January 20, 2026 8:56 PM

Botswana’s diamond stockpile swells as gem price slump persists

Botswana's diamond stockpile is nearly double its target inventory levels amid persistent low prices, leaving the country unable to increase gem production in the short term to lift its economy, the finance ministry has said. Botswana's economy was expected to shrink by almost 1% in 2025 following a 3% contraction the year before, largely due to the collapse of diamond prices under pressure from lab-grown gems and weak global demand. The price slump forced miner Debswana, Botswana's joint vent...

President Murmu addresses Botswana’s National Assembly, calls for stronger India-Africa partnership

November 13, 2025 10:28 AM

President Murmu addresses Botswana’s National Assembly, calls for stronger India-Africa partnership

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday addressed the National Assembly of Botswana in Gaborone, becoming the first Indian Head of State to do so. In her historic address, President Murmu highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between India and Botswana and called for closer cooperation between the two countries in areas such as education, health, technology, renewable energy, trade, and human resource development. The President was received at the Parliament by Speaker Dithapelo L. Keorapetse, D...

President Murmu attends Angola’s 50th Independence Day event, reaches Botswana for state visit

November 12, 2025 9:43 AM

President Murmu attends Angola’s 50th Independence Day event, reaches Botswana for state visit

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday participated in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence in Luanda, at the invitation of Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. The event, held at Praça da República, featured a grand ceremony showcasing Angola’s military and cultural heritage. President Murmu joined Lourenço and other dignitaries in witnessing the colourful display commemorating five decades of Angola’s independence. Following the ceremon...