Think you guys should have another look at southern africa. South Africa still has huge problems of the have and have nots, Zimbabwe simply is full of have nots whereas Botswana is the only true democracy.
Botswana, has the two largest diamond 'pipes' in the world. Granted independence 40 years ago when it was the british protecturate called Bechuanaland. Population 1.7 million in a country the size of France. The government has, in the 40 years since indepandence, always been the same party (the BDP) but has two major opposition parties. It wins elections fairly!
It also is a partner of De Beers (50/50) but spends its money on infrastructure and in fact lends money to the world bank. (Used to lend to SA but never got paid back!)
Recently they have re-negotiated with De Beers and now are going to start polishing diamonds in Botswana instead of sending uncut stones to London. Thereby causing job creation.
Buy our diamonds please!
Think you guys should have another look at southern africa. South Africa still has huge problems of the have and have nots, Zimbabwe simply is full of have nots whereas Botswana is the only true democracy.
Botswana, has the two largest diamond 'pipes' in the world. Granted independence 40 years ago when it was the british protecturate called Bechuanaland. Population 1.7 million in a country the size of France. The government has, in the 40 years since indepandence, always been the same party (the BDP) but has two major opposition parties. It wins elections fairly!
It also is a partner of De Beers (50/50) but spends its money on infrastructure and in fact lends money to the world bank. (Used to lend to SA but never got paid back!)
Recently they have re-negotiated with De Beers and now are going to start polishing diamonds in Botswana instead of sending uncut stones to London. Thereby causing job creation.
Buy our diamonds please!