27 Mar 2025

Orapa Letlhakane and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM) has announced several interventions, including production reduction and cost management strategies, to ensure Debswana’s resilience in the current volatile economic climate. 

This was revealed by General Manager Mr Mogakolodi Maoketsa during a Boteti District council session on Wednesday.

Mr Maoketsa acknowledged the difficulties faced by Debswana over the past two years, largely due to a downturn in the diamond market. He cited several factors affecting diamond sales, including ongoing geopolitical instability and competition from lab-grown diamonds.

The resulting economic strain has led to increased inventories of both rough and polished diamonds, instigating the decision to align diamond production rates with market demand. He also indicated that some processing plants would be placed under care and maintenance, assuring councillors that there would be no job losses. Employees from these plants are expected to be transferred to facilities in Orapa.

As the company implements austerity measures to navigate these challenging times, Mr. Maoketsa reassured the council of OLD’s ongoing commitment to corporate citizenship, emphasizing their intention to continue supporting local communities as resources allow.

Over the past two years, OLD has invested in infrastructural development projects, including the paving of one kilometre of road in Rakops, which connects the library to Maun Junction, at a cost of P4 million. Additionally, they have partnered with the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources to support the establishment of a community ranch in Khwee village.

In 2024, Debswana’s business partners also contributed significantly to community support, with investments exceeding P3 million. These initiatives included various small and medium-sized projects, such as drilling boreholes, constructing pre-schools, and undertaking larger projects like classroom blocks and teachers’ housing.

A recent commitment was made for the construction of three teachers’ houses in Makgaba by AMEC Wood, which is currently in the scoping phase and developing a list of potential bidders. 

Furthermore, AMEC Wood previously launched a water project to address water shortages in Makgaba, Mosu, Mmea, and Mokubilo.

Mr Maoketsa highlighted that the company has effectively utilized its internal resources and employee support, noting that over 400,000 cubic metres of water have been distributed to Letlhakane village. ENDS