Debswana is committed to ensuring that the communities surrounding its operations can thrive long after its mines have closed, according to Mogakolodi Maoketsa, General Manager for Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM).
Speaking during a panel discussion at the 2025 Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, under the theme “The Communities We Leave Behind: Mine Closure”, Maoketsa emphasised that Debswana is dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy through strategic community investments.
“We focus on community development. If you look at the areas of influence and communities we impact, we prioritise what matters to them—education, health, and social development,” he said. “We believe that through our strategy, we will continue to make an impact. The purpose of Debswana is to make life brilliant.”
He said this commitment is reflected both internally, in ensuring a safe and progressive work environment, and externally, in fostering thriving communities. Maoketsa added that Debswana is already planning for the long term by focusing on alternative economic activities. He pointed to the company’s game parks, which will eventually be repurposed and handed over to the community as part of its post-mining sustainability efforts.
By participating in the Mining Indaba, Debswana aims to highlight its legacy as one of the world’s leading diamond producers and reinforce its role in driving economic growth and social development in Botswana for over five decades.
The company’s delegation engaged in panel discussions with industry leaders, networked with other mining companies, and met with media and government representatives. Debswana said its focus at the event was on exploring new technological trends and advancing ethical and sustainable mining practices to stay ahead of the industry’s evolving landscape.
