Diamond mining company De Beers Group has promised to donate even more money to causes surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic.
On top of its previous donations the company will now add a further $7.07 million (£5 million) to the total it has already given.
This includes $6.8 million (£4.8 million) to support the national vaccine procurement and rollout programmes of its government partners in Botswana and Namibia.
It also includes $270,000 (£191,000) to support Covid-19 response efforts for India’s gem and jewellery industry, as the country battles the devastating second wave of the virus.
These donations come on top of more than $10 million (£7.1 million) that De Beers Group and its joint ventures have already contributed in both financial and in-kind support.
Previous funds have been given to assist the company’s diamond-producing partner countries of Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa respond to the pandemic.
Bruce Cleaver, CEO, De Beers Group, said: “From the outset of Covid-19 we have been committed
to supporting our diamond producing partner countries in responding to and recovering from the
impacts of the pandemic.
“The delivery of successful national vaccine programmes is a critical part of the recovery phase and we are committed to working with our government partners to ensure we support their national vaccination strategies in the best way possible.
“Partnering for thriving communities is a key pillar of our sustainability work, and the health infrastructure we have built up in Botswana and Namibia over the decades will offer vital support for the administration of the vaccine, while our financial contribution can play an important role in supporting national vaccine procurement.
“As the global heart of the diamond manufacturing sector, the situation in India affects us all in the diamond industry and our thoughts are with everyone in India as the country faces its greatest challenge yet with regards to Covid-19.
“It’s heartening to see the GJEPC and GJC playing such a vital role in helping those in the Indian diamond sector affected by the virus and we are proud to support their critical work. This is a global issue that requires a shared solution and we must all pull together to fight this pandemic.”
NewsSource: professionaljeweller
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