Namibia uncovers massive 176 carat diamond
Namdeb Diamond Corporation unveiled an exceptional 176.29 carat natural diamond at a ceremony officiated by Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia. The stone was recovered from Namdeb’s Southern Coastal Mine in Oranjemund and represents the largest diamond of its kind discovered at the mine in the past two decades.
Attendees included officials from the Namibian government, Namdeb’s leadership teams, representatives from Namdeb Holdings and the Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC), De Beers executives, journalists, and other influential figures. The gathering honored a find that shows Namibia’s abundant natural resources and the lasting importance of its diamond production.
The President officially named the diamond Owishi, inspired by a rare subterranean honey known for its scarcity and reverence when unearthed. Like a precious diamond, this honey is cherished for its uniqueness. The name embodies the excitement of this historic discovery and will now represent Namibia’s heritage as the stone travels through its future path.
Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah called the discovery a landmark achievement for Namdeb and a source of national pride for Namibia. She emphasized how the mining sector drives economic progress, offering jobs and revenue that fund education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure across the country.
“May this discovery renew our commitment to ensuring that the wealth beneath our soil becomes a source of shared prosperity for all Namibians,” the Head of State said. The discovery comes at a challenging time for the global natural diamond industry and provides an opportunity to share the story of the people, communities and national development supported by responsibly recovered natural diamonds.
Alex Gawanab, Chair of Namdeb’s Board, framed the discovery as more than just an impressive mining success, noting it reaffirms the enduring worth of natural diamonds and the successful collaboration between Namibia’s government and De Beers. He also recognized Namdeb’s workforce, praising their skill, professionalism, and commitment to extracting Namibia’s diamonds safely and responsibly.
“Behind this extraordinary discovery are the hands, expertise, discipline and dedication of the Namdeb men and women who safely recover Namibia’s diamonds every day,” the Chairperson concluded. This discovery is a result of the hard work and dedication of the Namdeb employees and the importance of the mining industry in Namibia.
