The Namdeb 30 Year Book Launched In London
London, 30 June 2026 – De Beers Group proudly hosted the international launch of Mining for Good: The Namdeb Story 1994–2024, a commemorative publication documenting over three decades of Namdeb Diamond Corporation’s (Namdeb) journey. The event marked a significant milestone in sharing Namibia’s natural diamond story with the world, following the local launch earlier this year.
The London launch brought together leaders and partners, including the De Beers Group CEO Al Cook, Namdeb CEO Riaan Burger, and the Namibian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete. Their presence underscored the enduring partnership between Namibia and De Beers, and the importance of Namdeb’s role in shaping the global narrative of responsibly mined natural diamonds.
Opening the event, Al Cook highlighted the importance of De Beers’ long-standing joint venture with the Government of Namibia and the pride taken in this enduring partnership. He traced its roots from the Namibian diamond rush of 1908, through De Beers’ acquisition of Consolidated Diamond Mines (CDM) from Anglo American in 1930, and on to the creation of Namdeb in 1994. “Since then, Namdeb has made a lasting contribution to Namibia, with more than 80% of the value it creates flowing back into the country”, he shared.
Speaking later at the event, Namdeb CEO Riaan Burger emphasized the publication’s role as a strategic storytelling asset that reinforces the value of natural diamonds. He described Namdeb as one of the greatest examples of public-private partnership, a long-standing collaboration with the Government of Namibia that has delivered real, measurable benefits for the country. “It is a partnership rooted in pragmatism, trust, and a shared commitment to Namibia’s future,” he reflected.
The Namibian High Commissioner, H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete, highlighted Namdeb’s broader contributions beyond economics. “Over the past three decades, Namdeb has been at the heart of Namibia’s diamond industry which is an industry that has contributed significantly to our national development. Diamonds have helped build schools, hospitals, roads, and infrastructure, and have supported the livelihoods of thousands of Namibians. Namdeb’s story is, in many ways, the story of Namibia’s progress since its independence in 1990”
The book traces Namibia’s diamond journey from the first discovery in 1908 through to the establishment of Namdeb in 1994 as a 50:50 partnership between the Government of the Republic of Namibia and the De Beers Group. It highlights milestones that demonstrate Namdeb’s contribution to national revenue, community transformation, and sustainable development, while acknowledging the challenges and global forces that have shaped its evolution.
The international launch created a platform for reflection and dialogue, reinforcing Namibia’s position as a world leader in responsible natural diamond production. By documenting three decades of impact, partnerships and transformation, Mining for Good contributes to the broader global diamond narrative, offering insights into how responsibly mined diamonds benefit people, places and economies.
The book’s author, Robin Sherbourne, shared insights on the writing process and hopes that the book will help to spotlight the Namdeb story. and create awareness globally. “Namdeb is a brilliant example of what’s possible through partnership, determination and a focus on creating lasting value for a country and its people – and a major source of pride for Namibia, De Beers and for everyone who has helped shape its journey”, he said.
As the diamond industry faces increasing competition from lab-grown alternatives and global market pressures, the publication stands as a testament to the enduring value of natural diamonds and the unique partnership that has positioned Namibia at the forefront of responsible mining.
