In a significant development for the natural diamond sector, the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) proudly announced the inclusion of the Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) as its newest member. This strategic partnership underscores ODC’s pivotal role in the marketing of rough natural diamonds and marks a milestone as the first non-mining diamond company to join the esteemed ranks of NDC alongside industry stalwarts such as De Beers and other responsible mining enterprises.
As a government-owned entity, ODC holds sway in the upstream distribution of natural diamonds, amplifying Botswana’s commitment to stimulating consumer demand as a catalyst for future prosperity within the natural diamond industry.
With an impressive annual sales volume exceeding 6 million carats of rough natural diamonds, ODC sources its inventory exclusively from Debswana, Botswana’s premier diamond mining company responsible for a staggering 98% of the country’s diamond production. Notably, ODC boasts the prestigious Okavango Blue diamond—a 20.46 carat VVS1 oval brilliant, fancy, deep blue diamond—as a prized asset within its inventory.
The appointment of ODC Managing Director, Mmetla Masire, to the NDC board of directors underscores the alignment of vision between the two entities. Masire expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing ODC’s commitment to bolstering customer confidence in tandem with NDC’s mission to enhance consumer awareness across global markets.
David Kellie, CEO of NDC, hailed Botswana’s exemplary leadership in responsible natural resource management and lauded ODC’s membership as a means to spotlight the nation’s natural diamond industry on a global stage. He commended Masire and ODC for their proactive contributions to the industry’s future prosperity, noting the resonance of Botswana’s diamond narrative with consumers worldwide.
In addition to welcoming ODC, NDC’s Industry Partnership Program has forged alliances with nine leading diamantaires and esteemed industry entities. This collaborative endeavor underscores a collective commitment to propel the modern diamond industry forward through heightened investment in marketing and promotion initiatives.
The partnership between NDC and ODC, alongside the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders, heralds a new era of innovation and growth within the natural diamond sector, poised to inspire consumers and drive positive impact across global markets.
