Discovering Orapa: Botswana's Diamond Heart
Orapa, meaning "resting place of lions" in Setswana, is home to one of the largest diamond mines in the world. Located in the Central District of Botswana, this remarkable site has been a cornerstone of Botswana's economy since its discovery in 1967.
Fascinating Facts about Orapa Diamond Mine
- Orapa is the world's largest diamond mine by area, covering about 118 square kilometers (45.6 square miles).
- The mine was discovered by De Beers geologists in 1967 and began operations in 1971.
- It is an open-pit mine, currently about 250 meters (820 feet) deep and is expected to reach a final depth of 450 meters (1,480 feet).
- Orapa produces high-quality diamonds, with an average of 11 million carats per year.
- The mine is jointly owned by De Beers (50%) and the Government of Botswana (50%) through Debswana Diamond Company.
- Orapa has contributed significantly to Botswana's transformation from one of the poorest countries at independence to an upper-middle-income country.
Environmental and Social Impact
While diamond mining has brought economic prosperity to Botswana, Debswana is committed to responsible mining practices. The company has implemented various environmental management programs and community development initiatives in Orapa and surrounding areas.
Visiting Orapa
Due to security reasons, Orapa is a closed town, and the mine is not open for public tours. However, visitors can learn about Botswana's diamond industry at the Diamond Museum in Gaborone, the country's capital.
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