- Botswana to be the first of many certification nodes to be set up in Africa
- G7 technical team is collaborating with Botswana to set up node
BONGANI MALUNGA
The European Commission (EC) has emphasised that Botswana’s ethical appeal and conflict-free status in the diamond industry were vital for the country to earn the right to establish a diamond verification node.
Following last week’s announcement, Botswana has been confirmed as the world’s second export certification point for rough diamonds after Antwerp, Belgium. The Botswana verification point is poised to be operational next year as confirmed by the EC.
FACETS Conference
The Group of Seven (G7) and the European Union (the mother body of the EC) established a single node for verification of diamonds from 1st March this year that is aimed at preventing Russian diamonds from entering the market and blood diamonds from elsewhere.
Led by President Duma Boko last week, a government delegation attended the FACETS Conference in Antwerp seeking to be given a special dispensation and exemption from the G7 and EU diamond certification directive, citing added costs and restricted market access for Botswana diamonds.
The EC subsequently released a statement emphasising that the establishment of a Botswana node would enhance the country’s status as a major player in the diamond industry.
Ethically-sound
The statement noted that by virtue of being an ethically-sound diamond producer, Botswana is in pole position to inspire investor confidence and attract international buyers.
“Establishing this certification node will reinforce Botswana’s position as a responsible global leader in diamond production, offering reassurance to international buyers and stakeholders,” it said.
“This development is expected to increase investor confidence, support economic growth and promote ethical practices across the diamond supply chain.”
Namibia, Angola for future nodes
According to the EC, Botswana is expected to be the first of many certification nodes that will be set up in Africa in the near future.
Talks are already underway with other diamond producing countries in Africa to explore emulating the Botswana node.
“The G7 diamond technical team will continue engaging with other African diamond producing countries such as Namibia and Angola to consider setting up additional export certification nodes,” the EC said.
Addressing gaps
The EC statement also confirmed that the G7 diamond technical team and the Botswana government are actively collaborating to enhance the latter’s capacity in the certification process and addressing initial gaps.
The two parties have drawn up a roadmap to accelerate plans to have the node operational next year.