Botswana Diamonds’ Chairperson, John Teeling, has highlighted several positive developments achieved by the company in 2023.
These include the discovery of a high-grade anomaly similar in size to the KX36 kimberlite pipe, progress on Thorny River mining permits in South Africa, and renewed interest in the Ghaghoo diamond mine in Botswana.
Despite a depressed diamond market in 2023, Teeling remains optimistic about the long-term outlook for mined diamonds.
He acknowledges the growing market for lab-grown diamonds but believes that the rarity of natural mined diamonds will endure.
In South Africa, operations at the Marsfontein diamond area were put on hold due to economic factors. However, progress continues on the Thorny River project, with community support being a key consideration.
In Botswana, the company’s focus is on the Kalahari region, where a gravity survey revealed a significant anomaly adjacent to the KX36 discovery.
Further exploration and environmental studies are underway, with promising indications for additional discoveries in the area.
Teeling also mentions interest from a new investor in acquiring the Ghaghoo mine, which, along with other potential diamond-bearing sites, could contribute to a new diamond-producing area in Botswana.
Botswana Diamonds is exploring opportunities in other countries like Eswatini and Zimbabwe, and remains optimistic about future market conditions.
