Find Mining expertise in Botswana

Mining started near Orapa in 1967 only a year after independence.

Mining dominates Botswana’s economy. Diamond mining, in particular, contributes around one-third of GDP, and Botswana is the world’s largest producer of quality gem diamonds. The company responsible for all diamond mining in the country is Debswana, a joint venture between the Government of Botswana and De Beers, which is 45% owned by mining conglomerate Anglo American. Other minerals extracted in Botswana include copper, nickel, soda ash, cobalt and coal.

EITI status

Botswana is not yet EITI compliant.

Clay, gravel, sand and stone are the major resources extracted by quarrying in Botswana, used mainly as domestic construction materials. Quarries of Botswana (Pty) Ltd. was one of the largest companies in operation in the country, with aggregate quarries in Garbone, Selebi Phikwe, Francistown and Mahalaphye. The first three quarries listed were acquired in 2011 by Portland Cement Company Ltd, which is now considered one of the major producer/suppliers of cement in southern Africa.

In 1978, the Mines, Quarries, Works and Machineries Act was enacted to protect workers and promote safety, health and welfare for those within the industry.

The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, part of the Department of Mines, is responsible for the mining and quarrying sector and is responsible for granting licences. The objectives of the Department of Mines are to administer mineral exploitation legislation and to enhance socio-economic, financial and other benefits for the country arising from the extraction of mineral resources.