US still leading importer of Botswana diamonds

25 October, 2009 in Botswana, Business

source: Mmegi
STAFF WRITER

Despite the downturn in the global markets, Botswana continues to be the largest supplier of rough diamonds to the United States of America (US).

According to figures on Diamondintelligence.com Botswana was the largest supplier of rough to the US during August ahead of other countries such as South Africa.

In August Botswana was the leading rough diamond supplier to the US, exporting 2,596 carats worth US$4.97 million averaging US$1,915.38 p/c. South Africa followed with 1,130 carats worth US$4 million, a high average of US$3,564.46 p/c.

Although sales have begun for recover in Botswana, production is [continue reading]

Zambia: Fuel Mess Upsets RB

25 October, 2009 in Zambia

source: allAfrica
The Times of Zambia (Ndola)
22 October 2009

PRESIDENT Rupiah Banda has expressed disappointment about the current shortage of petrol and directed the Ministry of Energy to allow oil marketing companies (OMCs) to source more fuel.

Mr Banda said yesterday at a Press briefing in Lusaka before he left for a regional summit in Uganda that he was disappointed that the logistics for the importation of fuel were inadequate.

The president said he had personally decided to get involved in addressing the fuel crisis because the situation was not improving despite various assurances.

“I am particularly upset that logistics for the importation of fuel products are below expectation. In addition, the nation has not been given an [continue reading]

Zuma to visit Zambia

25 October, 2009 in South Africa, Zambia

source: IOL
October 22 2009 at 12:07PM

International Relations and Co-operation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane will depart for Lusaka, Zambia on Thursday to prepare for President Jacob Zuma’s upcoming state visit, her department said.

Spokeswoman Nomfanelo Kota said Nkoana-Mashabane would hold discussions with her Zambian counterpart Kabinga Pande ahead of Zuma’s scheduled visit in December.

“The visit by Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane takes place within the context of the consolidation of the African Agenda and efforts by the South African government to build on the solid bilateral relations existing between the two countries,” she said in a statement.

She said the discussions between Nkoana-Mashabane and Pande would focus, among others, on memorandums of understanding to be signed during the [continue reading]

World invited to braai with SA in 2010

25 October, 2009 in South Africa, World Cup 2010

source: IOL
October 22 2009 at 02:07PM
By Clayton Barnes
2010 Writer

Thousands of soccer fans at 2010 public viewing areas across the world can expect to share in South Africa’s “braai culture” during next year’s World Cup.

Wines of South Africa (Wosa) is planning a series of international braai festivals during the 30-day tournament, a World Cup for sommeliers, and a range of other activities to highlight South Africa’s hosting of the event.

The braai festivals are to be held in key export destinations such as the UK, Holland, Germany, Scandinavia and countries in Latin America and the Far East.

The events will feature high-profile South African chefs and winemakers at venues where [continue reading]

Inauguration address by President Khama

25 October, 2009 in Botswana

source: BOPA
22 October, 2009

Your Lordship Chief Justice Nganunu and Mrs. Nganunu Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Balopi and Mrs. Balopi Former President Mr F. G. Mogae Lady Masire Judge President of the Industrial Court Your Ladyships and Lordships Judges of the High Court and Industrial Court, and your Spouses Your Excellencies Heads of Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations and your spouses Honourable Members of Parliament and your spouses Dikgosi le bahumagadi The Right Reverend Bishop Valentine T. Seane Distinguished Guests Batswana betsho, ke lo dumedisa ka Pula! 1. I once more take the solemn Oath of Office of President with a great sense of humility. I am humbled by the expression of faith and trust bestowed upon me and my Government by the citizens of this country. At the same time, I derive much strength from this [continue reading]