President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko is set to take Botswana’s diamond story to the global stage when he attends the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York from 19 to 26 September 2026.
A key feature of the President’s programme will be the Botswana-hosted side event, “60 Jewels of Botswana: The Diamond Story,” which will showcase the country’s diamond heritage and the role of the precious stones in Botswana’s development journey.
The event coincides with Botswana’s 60th year of independence, providing an opportunity to connect the diamond industry with six decades of national development, economic transformation, and international recognition.
Botswana is internationally recognised as one of the world’s leading diamond producers, with diamonds playing a central role in the economy since major deposits were discovered shortly after independence.
Through the “60 Jewels of Botswana” initiative, the country will present its diamond story not merely as mineral wealth, but as a cornerstone of its broader national narrative.
The showcase will draw attention to the value of Botswana’s diamonds and the imperative of ensuring the nation continues to derive greater local value from its natural resources. President Boko’s participation also provides a platform to advocate for stronger international partnerships focused on sustainable development, investment, and mineral beneficiation.
The President is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on 23 September, where he is expected to reaffirm Botswana’s commitment to multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development. Beyond this address, he will participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements aimed at advancing national priorities.
Ultimately, the “60 Jewels of Botswana: The Diamond Story” side event places a defining national asset at the heart of UNGA81, linking six decades of sovereignty and resilience with future ambitions on the world stage.
