Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana’s diamonds shimmered on the runway during an exhibition of the Akh-Ba-Ka jewelery line held at the Gaborone International Convention Centre on Friday.
In the front row, President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi and First Lady Ms Neo Masisi were in attendance, both elegantly dressed in matching black outfits with a hint of red.
As the lights dimmed to kick off the show, cheers filled the air, and the brilliant Lucara-mined diamonds cast a dazzling light over the audience comprising mining magnates and industry leaders.
Presented by the well-known local model, Emmanuel Kayenda, of Batho Fashion Week, the runway showcased some of the industry’s top models and beauty queens, including Miss Botswana 2019 and 2017 winners Oweditse Phirinyanne and Nicole Gaelebale.
They adorned themselves with exquisite pieces ranging from modern chokers to diamond-drop earrings and sparkling rings.
A definite standout from the collection was the breathtaking design by Mpho Mokgatle, the winner of Lucara Diamonds’ inaugural jewellery designer competition and a native of Moshupa.
His earring and necklace pendants, inspired by traditional Botswana crafts like leselo and tlatlana, captured the hearts and eyes of the audience.
However, the evening’s highlight was the debut of the iconic signature piece from the Akh-Ba-Ka collection, worn by the current Miss Botswana, Anicia Gaothusi.
She joined an elite group of models, including supermodel Naomi Campbell and the current Miss World Africa Lesego Chombo, in displaying this prestigious necklace, marking a significant moment in the history of the brand.
The P70 million worth flamboyant necklace whose exceptional diamonds were cut from a single 110 carat raw stone discovered in Karowe mine, contains 2 550 diamonds, totaling 71.49 carats.
In the centre of the necklace is a 33-carat diamond inserted in the pendant area.
Akh-Ba-Ka is transcendence from soul to the light, representing the rough diamond’s journey, as well as the journey of the brand itself.
Officiating at the event, President Masisi said the collection was the embodiment and a reflection of highly refined and attractive designs crafting and sculpturing skills all put together.
He said that the premiere appreciated the sparkle and clarity of colour in diamond gem stones as they had passed through many skilled hands in the mainstream and down stream stages of the diamond industry to become immaculate jewellery pieces of high calibre.
“The jewellery collection being showcased must reflect an increase of locals participation in the lucrative value added processes of international diamond trading, thus Botswana need good and genuine partners in this endeavour of advancing the country’s national economic interests,” President Masisi said.
Lucara diamonds cooperation chief executive officer and president, Mr William Lamb said the masterpieces showcased were symbolic of Botswana’s diamond’s value and beauty as well as their uniqueness.
He said the jewels paraded were a reflection of Botswana’s beauty and warmth of its people adding that Lucara was thus privileged to be able to mine in Botswana and contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.
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