On 4 March 2026, Namdeb Diamond Corporation (Namdeb) launched a commemorative publication marking over 30 years since the establishment of the company in 1994.
Titled “Mining for Good: The Namdeb Story 1994-2024”, this publication is positioned as a strategic storytelling asset that reinforces the value of natural diamonds.
Ms Grace Luvindao, Namdeb’s corporate affairs manager, said that by documenting Namdeb’s journey, partnerships and impact over three decades, the book contributes to the global natural diamond narrative, clearly demonstrating how diamonds are responsibly mined, how they benefit people and places, and why their origin matters.
The event brought together leaders, partners and stakeholders for an evening of storytelling and shared memories, honouring the journey captured in the book, creating an atmosphere of reflection, pride and inspiration.
Documenting one of Namibia’s most significant economic and industrial partnerships, the book highlights key milestones that demonstrate Namdeb’s prominent role in Namibia’s post-independence economy, while acknowledging the complex realities, trade-offs and global forces that have influenced its development.
Furthermore, readers can also trace the country’s diamond history from the first discovery in 1908, through to the formation of Namdeb as a 50:50 partnership between the Government of the Republic of Namibia and the De Beers Group.
“Our natural diamond story is that of a development catalyst, and the book does well in documenting Namdeb’s contribution to value addition, as well as the company’s role in the transformation of Oranjemund from a closed mining town into a sustainable, open Namibian community,” said Namdeb CEO Riaan Burger.
“Namdeb stands as proof that natural resources, when responsibly managed, can be a powerful force for nation development.
“The value generated from natural diamonds has supported national revenue, created opportunities for Namibians and contributed to resilient communities. This is the true legacy of responsible mining.”
In her reflections, Mrs Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi, the Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform and Namdeb’s first Managing Director, alluded to cultural shifts over the 30 years stating, “Namdeb today stands as a transformed organisation, where talented Namibians lead across the business, the result of years of investment in skills, mentorship and opportunity.”
In his speech on behalf of Mr Modestus Amutse, the Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Mr Erasmus Shivolo, the Deputy Executive Director of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, highlighted that mining has always been more than an economic sector in Namibia, but a strategic enabler of national development.
“Namibia’s natural diamonds carry a distinctive story. They are rare and responsibly sourced; but above all, they are Namibian. This not only means that they hold much value, but that they contribute to schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and the broader aspirations of our people. This book highlights this narrative,” he added.
Key to this natural diamond story is the people behind the numbers.
Through interviews and first-hand accounts from policymakers, executives, employees and union representatives, the book passionately captures the lived experience of working in a company that has had to continually reinvent itself in the face of market downturns, technological change and rising cost pressures, while remaining anchored to its purpose of Mining for Good.
Responsible for conducting interviews and weaving together Namdeb’s narrative, commissioned author Robin Sherbourne said: “The book draws on a wide range of authoritative sources, including company records, government statistics, academic research and industry data, and is deliberately presented in a mostly neutral tone, allowing readers to better understand Namdeb’s legacy and impact.”
In an era of increasing competition from lab-grown stones, coupled with the current global diamond market challenges, the publication tells the story of a unique partnership that has stood the test of time by positioning Namibia as a world leader in responsible natural diamond production.
In the photo: At the Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani cutting the ribbon to officially launch the book. Joined by Namdeb CEO Riaan Burger, Dr Leake Hangala, Erasmus Shivolo, and 3rd First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, Madam Monica Geingos.
