Botswana Moves to Acquire Majority Stake in De Beers as Sale Looms

Botswana Moves to Acquire Majority Stake in De Beers as Sale Looms. The government of Botswana has publicly confirmed its intention to acquire the majority shareholding in De Beers as its current owner, Anglo American, moves ahead with plans to divest its 85 % controlling stake. The potential move marks a major turning point for Botswana’s role in the global diamond industry.

Currently, Botswana holds a 15 % stake in De Beers, and also jointly owns Debswana — the mining partnership responsible for much of the country’s diamond output. Bank of Botswana+2Miningmx+2 According to President Duma Boko, the government is in active negotiations to secure control of the remaining 85 %. The goal: reposition De Beers under Botswana-led ownership while bringing in new partners to support long-term growth.

Officials argue that full or majority ownership could give Botswana greater control over how rough diamonds mined domestically are marketed — a key concern amid persistent pressure on natural diamond prices worldwide. IntelliNews+2Akm+2 The government is reportedly exploring various financing options and partnership structures, signalling that the intended acquisition may not concentrate all shares within the state.

Industry observers say the move would reshape decades of diamond-industry dynamics. De Beers has long dominated the global diamond supply chain, and shifting its ownership could have ripple effects on pricing, supply control, and how Botswana captures more value from its mineral wealth.

At present, no deal has been finalised. The outlook will depend heavily on further negotiations and whether buyers or partner investors meet the government’s conditions. Despite the uncertainty, calls for greater national control over strategic minerals have gained fresh impetus.