Botswana has been designated as the second center for verifying the origins of rough diamonds intended for export to Group of Seven (G7) nations. This move, announced Thursday by Botswana’s presidency, follows long-standing complaints from African diamond producers about supply chain disruptions caused by Belgium’s status as the sole verification hub.
The decision was made after “intensive” negotiations between Botswana and the G7 Diamond Technical Team, signaling a shift toward a more inclusive and balanced global diamond certification framework.
Botswana, the world’s second-largest diamond producer, brings significant credibility and expertise to its new role. Minister of Minerals Bogolo Kenewendo emphasized the country’s proven track record in diamond verification and its long-standing participation in the Kimberley Process—a global trade regime aimed at certifying diamonds and preventing the flow of conflict gems.
“It’s only logical that Botswana, given its capacity and leadership in the diamond sector, should play this role,” Kenewendo stated, while advocating for other African producers, such as Angola and Namibia, to also be recognized as verification centers.
The G7 initially proposed routing all rough diamonds through Antwerp, Belgium, to prevent Russian-mined gems from entering their markets, a move driven by sanctions against Moscow. However, this centralized approach caused logistical delays and increased costs, sparking protests from diamond-producing nations.
By adding Botswana as a certification hub, the G7 aims to reduce disruptions and accommodate a more diversified supply chain. Diamond industry expert Hans Merket noted that this decision could pave the way for a more balanced certification scheme.
“Botswana’s inclusion introduces flexibility and acknowledges the global dynamics of the diamond trade,” Merket said, adding that this shift might also encourage stricter ethical standards in a sector increasingly scrutinized for its shortcomings under the Kimberley Process.
Despite the progress, critics argue that adding a single African certification hub is insufficient. Jaff Bamenjo, coordinator of the Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition, stressed the need for broader inclusion of African diamond producers.
“Botswana’s addition is a step forward, but it won’t fully resolve the supply chain challenges,” Bamenjo said. He called for Angola, Namibia, and other countries with established Kimberley Process frameworks to be granted similar certification authority.
The Kimberley Process itself faces mounting criticism for perceived leniency and declining credibility, especially as calls grow for higher ethical standards in the diamond industry.
Botswana’s certification center is expected to become operational early next year, marking a new chapter in global diamond governance. As discussions progress, the inclusion of more African producers could reshape the industry’s ethical and logistical landscape, addressing both supply chain efficiency and the longstanding marginalization of African nations in global trade.
This move represents not only an opportunity for greater equity in the diamond sector but also a test of the G7’s commitment to building a more inclusive and transparent framework for one of the world’s most sought-after resources.
