Mining industry of Botswana

The mining industry of Botswana has dominated the national economy of Botswana since the 1970s, being a primary sector industry.^[3] Diamond has been the leading component of the mineral sector^[4] ever since production of gems started being extracted by the mining company Debswana.^[5] Most of Botswana's diamond production is of gem quality, resulting in the country's position as the world's leading producer of diamond by value.^[4] Copper, gold, nickel, coal and soda ash production also has held significant, though smaller, roles in the economy.^[4]

In 2022, mining accounted for about 16% of Botswana's real gross domestic product (GDP).^[6] Most of Botswana’s mineral industry consists of diamonds.^[7] Beyond diamonds, Botswana also boasts abundant mineral resources such as coal, copper, nickel, and soda ash, along with granite, further diversifying its mining sector. However, this sector, despite being very important, faces challenges, mainly due to lack of infrastructure development.