18 Dec 2024

The Lucara Diamond Naming Competition, which has been ongoing since November has concluded with Mr Unaswi Nduna and Mr Koketso Keipate scooping the top two positions. 

The competition aimed to engage the public in celebrating Botswana’s rich diamond heritage and foster a deeper connection between the community and the industry. 

Mr Nduna, whose diamond name submission, ‘Motswedi’ was chosen for the first diamond weighing an impressive 2 488 carats, won a cash prize of P100 000 as well as an exclusive opportunity to visit the Karowe mine and witness the diamond mining operations. 

Mr Keipate named the second diamond, weighing 1 094 carats, ‘Seriti’, and received a prize of P50, 000 as well as a chance to explore the mine. 

During a ceremony held at the Gaborone International Conference Centre on Tuesday, the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo, expressed gratitude to all participants for their creativity and passion, emphasising the importance of diamonds in Botswana’s economy and identity. 

Ms Kenewendo remarked that the competition not only highlighted the beauty of diamonds but also the stories and values they represented for the people of Botswana. 

Ms Naseem Larhi, the Managing Director of Lucara Botswana, spoke about the significance of the two extraordinary diamonds as representations of Botswana’s heritage and commitment to ethical mining practices. 

According to Ms Larhi, the two diamonds symbolised Botswana’s prominent position in the global diamond industry and reflected the nation’s geological history and cultural values. 

She emphasised that these diamonds were not only beautiful gems but also ambassadors of Botswana’s prestige and dedication to sustainable mining, representing opportunities and hope. 

Lucara Botswana is committed to transforming the extraction of these diamonds into a process that enriches local communities and infrastructure, she stated. Ms Larhi noted that the partnership with the government of Botswana was essential in promoting mining as a positive force aligned with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

The event celebrated the creativity of Botswana’s people, with five finalists recognised for their contributions. 

The naming of the diamonds will connect them to Botswana’s legacy, ensuring their historical significance. 

Head Judge, Professor Thapelo Otlogetswe, shared that the competition received over 30 000 submissions and six names  wereshortlisted.

In explaining the judging process, Prof. Otlogetswe said: “We looked for the same creativity that is typical of Batswana, focusing on cultural and historical relevance. It was essential to have not just a name, but a compelling story behind it, one that resonates with local communities and captivates an international audience.” 

He explained that one name received submissions from 220 individuals, another from 154, the third from 146, the fourth from 116, and the final one from 84 participants. 

Therefore, the judges meticulously evaluated all justifications for each name to select a winner, noting that what ultimately won was more than just a name—it was a compelling story behind the name. 

The judging panel was satisfied that the winning names captured the spirit of Batswana, reflected their history, culture, and values, and included compelling justifications. ENDS