Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana is set to establish a second verification node for rough diamond exports for Group of Seven (G7) countries.
The initiative, guided by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), aims to enhance the traceability of diamonds and prevent those of Russian origin from accessing G7 markets.
The move follows a massive protest against the Antwerp single node proposal that was scheduled for implementation next year.
Following the G7’s ban on Russia-origin diamonds in January 2024, which was extended to diamonds mined in Russia, but cut and polished in other countries in March 24, G7 agreed on Antwerp as a single node for verification and certification, This meant that all rough diamonds were to be verified and certified only in Antwerp, Europe’s diamond hub under the stringent tracking system.
Reacting to this, Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo said, “This is important because as a country we want value addition for our minerals.”
Ms Kenewendo said the move would restore investor confidence, boost the diamond market, and promote ethical practice in the diamond industry.
The minister said for the development of the G7 verification point, Botswana would now receive support and expertise from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (ADWC).
“Botswana and the G7 diamond technical team are now crafting a roadmap to address any identified gaps, aiming to have the export certification node fully operational in Botswana,” she said.
Botswana’s inclusion as a diamond verification node will reposition the country as a responsible global leader in all diamond production, further reassuring global buyers and stakeholders.
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