Gaborone, Botswana – December 2023

Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB), in partnership with the Ministry of Minerals and Energy and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), proudly facilitated the prestigious FACETS 2023 Conference, a landmark event that reaffirmed Botswana’s leadership in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible diamond industry.

Held under the theme “Motswedi wa Khumo-Diamonds for Change,” the conference convened global stakeholders across the entire diamond value chain from producers and policymakers to traders and retailers to re-imagine the role of diamonds as a force for shared prosperity.

A Global Platform for Collaboration and Transformation

FACETS 2023 was officially opened by His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, with a virtual address by His Excellency Mr. Charles Michel, President of the European Council. Their participation underscored the global significance of the conversations unfolding in Gaborone a city now recognised as a central hub for the diamond trade.

Throughout the two-day event, participants engaged in forward-looking discussions on transparency, traceability, innovation, and inclusivity within the global diamond ecosystem.

“Playing a pivotal role in FACETS, MDCB positioned both itself and Botswana at the very heart of the global dialogue on the future of diamonds,” said a senior MDCB representative. “Our role extends beyond participation, we are helping shape an industry that is not only profitable but principled.”

Diamonds as Catalysts for Positive Change

The conference placed strong emphasis on the transformative power of diamonds to advance sustainable development. Sessions explored how the sector can embrace cleaner technologies, empower women and youth entrepreneurs, and expand equitable benefits across producing nations.

MDCB’s contribution to FACETS 2023 reflected its strategic intent to ensure that Botswana’s diamond legacy evolves with the world balancing economic returns with ethical responsibility and long-term social impact.

Building an Industry for the Future

FACETS 2023 concluded with a renewed commitment from global partners to deepen collaboration on sustainability and innovation. For MDCB, the event marked another milestone in its mission to drive meaningful change within Botswana’s most iconic sector and to ensure that the diamond industry continues to sparkle - not just in brilliance, but in purpose.

About Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB):

Minerals Development Company Botswana (Pty) Ltd is an investment holding company wholly owned and established by the Government of Botswana to grow, optimise and diversify the Government’s mining and mineral investment portfolio with a view to generating attractive financial returns and contribute to Botswana’s financial security. MDCB also provides advisory services (commercial and technical) to the Government and facilitates the development of the Botswana’s mining and minerals sector. As part of its mandate the company also houses the Government Diamond Valuation (GDV) function responsible for negotiating best prices for the country’s diamonds and deriving optimum value thereof, for the benefit of Batswana.

For More Information
Website: www.mdcb.co.bw 
Email: info@mdcb.co.bw 
Phone: +267 3810 300