The governments of Botswana and Angola have officially joined the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) as affiliate members, marking a significant development in the relationship between diamond-producing nations and the global diamond trading community.
The announcement was made during the WFDB International Summit held in Gaborone on May 18.
First Governments to Join the WFDB
The admission of Botswana and Angola represents a historic first for the WFDB, which serves as the global umbrella organization for major diamond bourses around the world. While neither country currently operates a fully independent diamond bourse, both governments sought membership due to the strategic importance of diamonds to their national economies.
The two nations have initially joined as affiliate members but are expected to participate as full WFDB members during the World Diamond Congress 2026 scheduled to take place in Singapore later this year.
Botswana Strengthens Focus on Natural Diamonds
As the world’s second-largest diamond producer, Botswana views the membership as an opportunity to engage directly with international traders and industry stakeholders on key issues including traceability, consumer confidence and the differentiation between natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Bogolo Kenewendo said the move reflects Botswana’s commitment to responsible industry growth and stronger global collaboration.
She emphasized that natural diamonds continue to play a vital role in creating sustainable economic value for Botswana and the broader diamond sector.
Angola Expands International Industry Engagement
Diamantino Azevedo described Angola’s admission into the WFDB as an important milestone in strengthening ties with the international diamond trading community.
Angola has been working toward establishing its own diamond exchange for several years and sees the partnership as a step toward expanding co-operation and increasing participation in the global diamond market.
Closer Producer-Trader Collaboration Expected
Industry observers believe the inclusion of producer governments within the WFDB could encourage stronger alignment between mining nations, traders and diamond exchanges, particularly at a time when the industry is focusing heavily on transparency, ethical sourcing and the future positioning of natural diamonds in global luxury markets.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and TJM Media Pvt Ltd. is not responsible for any errors in the same.
