What is Debswana's role in Botswana's diamond industry and value chain?

• A. Debswana is a consumer retailer.
• B. Debswana operates major mines in Botswana and supplies rough diamonds; government royalties; local jobs and infrastructure.
• C. Debswana only explores but does not mine.
• D. Debswana exports processed jewelry.

Answer: (B)

Debswana's role in Botswana's diamond industry is to operate the country's major diamond mines and supply rough diamonds into the market, while also driving government revenue and local development. It is a joint venture between the Government of Botswana and De Beers, so royalties and taxes flow to the state, reinforcing public services and national growth. Debswana also employs a large number of locals and funds infrastructure in mining communities, tying mining activity directly to local economies. This puts Debswana at the center of the diamond value chain—from extraction to export of rough diamonds—rather than retailing finished jewelry or focusing only on exploration.