Justicia Shipena
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the new Ankit Gems Namibia Diamond Cutting and Polishing Factory will strengthen the country’s manufacturing base. She added that it will also promote resource diversification and create jobs for young people.
Her remarks were delivered on her behalf by the acting minister of industries, mines and energy, Frans Kapofi, during the factory’s inauguration in Windhoek on Friday.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the project aligns with the country’s priority of adding value to natural resources.
“This plant will not only strengthen our manufacturing base but will also be instrumental for the diversification of our natural resources and for youth employment. By adding value locally, the factory transfers critical skills, fosters technological advancement and builds a more diverse and resilient economy,” she said.
The state-of-the-art factory employs more than 148 Namibians.
“This supports the government’s efforts to reduce youth unemployment. The facility uses world-class technology that allows Namibians to participate in the full diamond value chain.”
She said the factory will also build local talent by enabling Namibians to polish rough diamonds to international standards.
The factory has adopted digitalisation by selling its diamonds online and exporting them to markets in the EU, Asia and the United States.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the investment reflects growing confidence in Namibia’s economy and investment climate.
“The decision by the shareholders of Ankit Gems Namibia to invest in our diamond industry is a clear indication of the economic potential our country holds and our continuous commitment to fostering a conducive investment climate,” she said.
Namibia remains among the world’s top producers of high-quality diamonds, supporting GDP growth, foreign earnings, and jobs.
However, De Beers’ latest quarterly report shows a slight decline in 2025 production, with output falling by 2% to 1.62 million carats from 1.65 million in 2024.
De Beers attributed the decrease mainly to reduced marine mining activity, while land-based operations performed better.
However, she warned that artificial diamonds are affecting sales and returns from natural gems.
“It is critical that we enhance our value chain and differentiate our diamonds through superior craftsmanship and ethical sourcing,” she said.
Caption
Ribbon cut…Acting minister of industries, mines and energy Frans Kapofi officially opened the Ankit Gems Namibia Diamond Cutting and Polishing Factory on behalf of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Windhoek on Friday.
