Africa’s vast reserves and favourable geological conditions make it a prime location for diamond mining.
The Kimberley Process reports that Africa accounts for approximately 60% of the world’s diamond production by value. With 30% of global mineral reserves, the continent plays a crucial role in industries such as electronics and energy.
In 2023, among 22 diamond-producing countries, eight African nations were in the top ten producers.
Botswana led with diamond production valued at $3.28 billion, while Russia, with a total production value of $3.6 billion, was the top producer globally.
Read also: Top mineral resources by African country – EIU
Here are the top 10 African countries with the highest diamond production and their value
1. Botswana
Botswana leads the African continent in diamond production, with a total output of 25,094,818 carats in 2023. This production volume has translated into a significant revenue stream, with the country earning $3,283,178,851.00 from its diamond exports. Botswana’s diamond industry is a cornerstone of its economy, driving substantial economic activity and contributing to the nation’s GDP.
2. Angola
Angola is another key player in the diamond industry, producing 9,754,309 carats in 2023. The value of these diamonds reached $1,531,977,106.05, underscoring Angola’s important role in the global diamond market. The country continues to invest in its diamond sector, seeking to increase both production and the value derived from this natural resource.
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3. Namibia
Namibia produced 2,054,227 carats of diamonds in 2023, earning $1,234,496,934.12 from these exports. The country’s diamond industry is a significant contributor to its economy, with both onshore and offshore mining operations playing crucial roles in maintaining its production levels.
4. South Africa
South Africa, known for its rich history in diamond mining, produced 5,891,885 carats in 2023. This production brought in $793,950,820.00 in revenue, highlighting South Africa’s ongoing relevance in the diamond industry. The country’s mines continue to produce high-quality diamonds, contributing to both domestic and global markets.
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5. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s diamond production in 2023 amounted to 4,461,450 carats, with a corresponding value of $423,612,395.43. The country’s diamond sector has been a focus of growth and development, with efforts aimed at maximizing the benefits derived from its natural resources.
6. Lesotho
Lesotho, although smaller in production volume, produced 471,744 carats in 2023. The value of these diamonds reached $138,707,055.08. Lesotho’s diamond industry is known for producing some of the world’s largest and most valuable diamonds, despite its relatively modest output.
7. Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone’s diamond production in 2023 totalled 525,457 carats, generating $102,494,008.63 in revenue. The country’s diamond industry remains a vital part of its economy, providing employment and income for many of its citizens.
Read also: Top 10 gold-producing countries in the world
8. Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo)
The DR Congo produced 8,347,462 carats in 2023, with the diamonds valued at $64,963,508.80. Despite its substantial production volume, the value of DR Congo’s diamonds is lower compared to other leading producers, reflecting the quality and market conditions of the diamonds mined.
9. Tanzania
Tanzania’s diamond production in 2023 was 191,010 carats, with these diamonds valued at $31,159,266.94. The country’s diamond industry, while smaller in scale compared to others, continues to contribute to its overall mineral exports.
10. Liberia
Liberia rounds out the list with a production of 54,700 carats in 2023. The value of these diamonds was $17,643,108.39, marking Liberia as a smaller but still notable player in Africa’s diamond industry.
