NDTC clarifies Sightholder issue

The partnership between Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC) and Sightholders fully supported by NDTC Shareholders, namely the Namibian Government and De Beers, has been successful in creating a remarkably resilientdownstream beneficiation industry in Namibia, according to Namibia Diamond Trading Company Chief Executive Officer, Shihaleni Ndjaba.Since the advent of beneficiation sales in 2007, NDTC has sold close to N$26 billion worth of rough diamonds to be cut and polished in Namibia. This has enabled the Sightholders to not only directly employ close to a 1000 polishers but has also resulted in significant investment in infrastructure and technology in the Namibian cutting and polishing industry, There is no denying that the industry has faced some challenges in recent years primarily due to volatile market conditions; however the close cooperation between all relevant parties has created a solid foundation for further growth of a sustainable cutting and polishing industry in Namibia. Having said this, reflecting on the current status of downstream beneficiation industry and the opportunities provided by the new Sales and Marketing Agreement to further build on the beneficiation successes achieved over the last decade, we understand and appreciate the Government’s position as shared by the Minister of Mines and Energy at the consultative meeting with the industry,” said Ndjaba.The Ministry’s position is crucial in the context of NDTC’s mandate of supporting and facilitating beneficiation, Ndjaba explained.” The Minister has clearly articulated government’s expectations and aspirations from a beneficiation stand point and we are happy to state that this position is fully aligned to NDTC rough distribution strategy of supporting those Sightholders that process a larger proportion of their rough diamond purchases from NDTC in country.”“It is also important to state that NDTC commends the pragmatic approach taken by the Ministry in exploring various avenues to finding lasting solutions to the challenges currently faces by the industry. We strongly believe that consultation with all the relevant stakeholders is the best way to create a conducive, enabling environment for sustainable diamond beneficiation in Namibia,” he concluded.STAFF REPORTER

NDTC clarifies Sightholder issue

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-09

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NDTC clarifies Sightholder issue

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-09

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