Côte d’Ivoire seeks to revive diamond sector with Botswana expertise

Côte d’Ivoire is preparing a strategic push to revive its diamond industry as part of efforts to diversify its mining sector and reposition a once-prominent resource that has declined over recent decades, government sources said.

The initiative aims to restore the economic relevance of diamonds in the country’s extractive industry, which has traditionally been dominated by gold, manganese, and other minerals in recent years.

As part of the relaunch strategy, Abidjan is partnering with Botswana, Africa’s leading diamond producer and one of the world’s most successful examples of resource-driven development. Botswana’s experience in governance, traceability, and value addition is expected to guide Côte d’Ivoire’s restructuring of its diamond value chain.

Officials say the collaboration will focus on strengthening regulatory frameworks, improving transparency in extraction and trade, and developing local capacity in geological exploration and mineral certification.

Côte d’Ivoire’s diamond production has significantly declined since the civil conflict period, which disrupted mining activities and weakened formal supply chains. The government has since prioritized reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence and formalizing artisanal mining.

The renewed interest in diamonds comes as the country seeks to broaden its mining portfolio beyond industrial minerals and strengthen its position as a regional hub for sustainable resource development.

While details of the partnership framework have not yet been fully disclosed, officials indicate that technical cooperation with Botswana will play a central role in the early stages of the revival program.

The initiative reflects a broader trend across West Africa, where governments are increasingly seeking to move up the value chain in natural resources and reduce dependence on raw exports.