Eighteen Antwerp diamond companies have jointly financed life-saving medicines for more than 35,000 people in Botswana after the country declared a medical emergency earlier this year. The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) coordinated the initiative, directing funds to essential diabetes and cardiac medicines that will support patients for an entire year.

Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Joy Bogolo Kenewendo, visited Antwerp to thank the industry for its quick support. During her visit, the Minister met participating firms and toured key sector facilities. Botswana, a leading diamond producer, maintains close trade ties with Antwerp, with bilateral trade reaching about USD 580 million in 2024.

The 18 supporting companies are Andre Messika, Ankit Gems, Anita Diamonds, Bonas Group, Choron AMC, Dali Diamond, Dharm Diam, Ferrari, HB Antwerp, Malca Amit, Pluczenik, Rosy Blue, Rubel & Ménasché, Samir Gems, Sheetal, Shivam, Taché and Veediam.