The Diamond Empowerment Fund (D.E.F.) presented a check for $130,000 to the Botswana Top Achievers program, to continue the support the youth in Botswana through access to higher education so they, in turn, can help contribute to the economic development and diversification of Botswana. D.E.F has supported the Top Achievers program since 2011, with over $600,000 in donations.

D.E.F.’s check was presented at a reception celebrating Botswana’s 50th year of independence, hosted by H.E. Ambassador Charles T. Ntwaagae and Mrs. Ntwaagae. Present for the celebration and check presentation was UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who congratulated the country on its successful effort in promoting peace, stability, leadership, and human rights and urged the country to continue to lead the African continent by example.

Botswana is one of the top producers of diamonds by carat weight and value in the world. It is also a shining model of the positive impact diamonds have on communities when good governance is combined with good corporate social responsibility and best business practices from both private sector and government. The Top Achiever program is administered through Botswana’s Ministry of Education and Skills Development. “While we are blessed with diamonds as one of our natural resources, our truly most important resource is our youth. Thank you to the Diamond Empowerment Fund for helping us pave a way for their future,” said H.E. Ambassador Ntwaagae.