Ankit Gems Namibia has opened a new diamond cutting and polishing factory, expected to create 148 new jobs and strengthen Namibia’s push to expand local value addition in the diamond industry.
Speaking at the inauguration of the multi-million-dollar facility on behalf of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy Frans Kapofi said the factory will use advanced diamond-cutting and polishing technologies to process rough stones locally.
He noted that the facility also embraces digitalisation, with polished diamonds to be sold online to major international markets, including the European Union, Asia, and the United States.
“I am pleased to note that this plant employs over 148 employees, most being Namibians. This is timely in meeting the Government halfway to reduce the pressing issue of unemployment among the Namibian youth. It is also commendable that the production process uses world-class technologies, capacitating Namibians to participate in the entire value chain,” Kapofi said.
He added that the new factory marks a major milestone in Namibia’s diamond beneficiation agenda, reflecting investor confidence in the country’s business environment and economic potential.
“The establishment of this factory is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring Namibians derive maximum benefits from their natural resources,” he said.
In a statement delivered on her behalf, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed that the diamond sector remains one of Namibia’s key economic pillars, contributing significantly to GDP, foreign exchange earnings, and employment.
She, however, cautioned that the rise of lab-grown diamonds presents a growing challenge to the global natural diamond market.
“However, there is growing concern over the impact of artificial diamonds in the market, affecting the sale of our diamonds and reducing returns on this precious gem. Therefore, it is critical that we enhance our value chain and differentiate our diamonds through superior craftsmanship and ethical sourcing,” the President said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also commended India’s partnership with Namibia, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit earlier this year strengthened bilateral cooperation in mining and investment.
She encouraged more investors to follow Ankit Gems’ example and seize opportunities within Namibia’s resource-based industries.
“The inauguration of this factory demonstrates the success of strategic partnerships that create jobs, build skills, and increase domestic beneficiation,” the President said.
