The Namibian government says it has not made any decision on whether it could acquire shares in De Beers, with the Ministry of Mines and Energy confirming the matter has not yet been considered by Cabinet.
The ministry said the State remains fully invested in its existing 50% shareholding in Namdeb and Debmarine Namibia, which continue to anchor the country’s diamond industry.
“Government has not made a decision regarding the acquisition of equity in De Beers. No proposal of this nature has been tabled before Cabinet,” the ministry said.
It added that any future changes in the sector would require careful review due to the key role diamonds play in the national economy.
“Given the strategic importance of the diamond sector, government must thoroughly consider the implications, risks and future opportunities before taking any major decision,” it stated.
According to the ministry, stakeholder engagements are underway to ensure national interests and long-term benefits remain prioritised.
“Our approach is guided by the national interest, inclusive growth and a balanced outcome for both the industry and the Namibian people. Once formal decisions are made, accurate information will be communicated through the appropriate official channels,” it said.
This follows reports that Angola has submitted a formal bid for a minority stake in De Beers, as part of a proposal to form a Pan-African consortium of diamond-producing countries, including Namibia, Botswana and South Africa, to acquire and operate the company currently being sold by Anglo American.
