The Orapa Diamond Mine stands as one of the most significant industrial landmarks in the world. Often referred to as the “resting place for lions,” Orapa is the world’s largest diamond mine by surface area, covering approximately 1.18 square kilometers [1]. Its discovery and subsequent development have been fundamental to the economic transformation of Botswana [2].
Location and ownership
Located in the Boteti Sub-District of north-central Botswana, the mine sits approximately 240 km west of Francistown [3]. It is owned and operated by Debswana Diamond Company, a 50/50 joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Botswana and the De Beers Group [4]. This partnership, established shortly after the mine’s discovery in 1967, is a global model for public-private resource management.
Actual mine development
Orapa is a conventional open pit mine extracting diamonds from two kimberlite pipes that converge near the surface [1]. Since it became fully operational in 1971, the mine has undergone several major expansions, most notably Orapa 2000, which doubled its production capacity.
As of 2026, the mine is operating at a depth of roughly 450 meters. While Orapa has historically produced over 10 million carats annually, recent years have seen a strategic shift. In response to global market fluctuations in 2025, production levels have been adjusted to focus on high-value stones and operational efficiency, ensuring the mine remains profitable even during periods of lower diamond demand [5].
Future objectives
The primary future objective is the Orapa Cut-3 Project. This ambitious initiative aims to extend the mine’s life until at least the mid-2050s by deepening the current pit to access deeper ore bodies. Additionally, Debswana is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 through the integration of renewable energy and the reduction of diesel dependency. By focusing on “smart-connected” mining and community sustainability, Orapa aims to remain the bedrock of Botswana’s economy for decades to come.
Reference
[1] “Orapa diamond mine – Wikipedia.” Accessed: Jan. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orapa_diamond_mine
[2] “The Impact of Mining in Botswana – AFSIC 2026 – Investing in Africa.” Accessed: Jan. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.afsic.net/the-impact-of-mining-in-botswana/
[3] “Debswana Orapa,” BCM, Botswana Chamber of Mines, Mining and Exploration. Accessed: Jan. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.bcm.org.bw/our-members/debswana-orapa/
[4] “Orapa Mine, Orapa, Letlhakane, Central District, Botswana.” Accessed: Jan. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://www.mindat.org/loc-17292.html
[5] “Botswana Diamond Giant Slashes Output as Global Demand Falls.” Accessed: Jan. 20, 2026. [Online]. Available: https://discoveryalert.com.au/botswana-diamond-crisis-2025-market-impact/
