Botswana has launched a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme as part of its efforts to diversify the national economy.
The country, one of Africa’s leading diamond producers, is currently facing a severe economic slowdown. One of the main reasons behind this downturn is the decline in the global diamond market.
ECONOMIC DOWNTURN DEEPENS
Due to this decline, Botswana’s GDP contracted by 3% in 2024, and the situation worsened further in 2025. Rough diamond sales dropped by more than 40% in the first half of 2025.
On September 25, 2025, the state-owned Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) decided to withdraw a 1-million-carat auction after receiving significantly low bids. These developments highlight the deepening scale of the economic crisis in the country.
DEPENDENCE ON DIAMONDS WEIGHING ON THE ECONOMY
The diamond trade accounts for one-third of Botswana’s government revenue, meaning any disruption in the sector directly affects the entire economy.
The growing presence of lab-grown diamonds, especially their increasing share in the engagement ring market, suggests that the crisis in Botswana’s diamond industry could persist in the long term.
NEW STRATEGY: IMPACT INVESTMENT PROGRAMME
In response, the Botswana government has launched a new initiative called the Impact Investment Programme, aimed at revitalizing the economy and creating new sources of income.
As part of this broader strategy, the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme will officially be implemented in early 2026.
ONE OF THE MOST AFFORDABLE CITIZENSHIP PROGRAMMES IN THE WORLD
Under the new programme, applicants will be required to make an initial investment between USD 75,000 and USD 90,000. This amount positions the scheme as one of the most affordable citizenship options globally.
The initiative aims to attract foreign capital, inject liquidity into the economy, and reduce Botswana’s heavy dependence on the diamond sector.