Events

Watch Event Video

Diamonds, Democracy, and Development: Botswana’s Blueprint for Shared Prosperity

A conversation with

Bogolo Joy Kenewendo
Minister of Minerals and Energy of the Republic of Botswana

and

Wafaa El-Sadr
Executive Vice President of Columbia Global

Botswana’s story is one of resilience and vision, where the nation harnessed its vast diamond resources to transform the country from one of the poorest countries to an upper middle income country, while strengthening democratic institutions and fostering inclusive development. Guided by principles of good governance, prudent management, and long-term planning, Botswana has transformed natural wealth into social investment, advancing education, healthcare, and infrastructure while ensuring broad-based benefits for its citizens. This dialogue will explore how Botswana’s unique approach to linking resource management with democracy and sustainable development offers a blueprint for shared prosperity in Africa and beyond.

Columbia University students are invited to participate in a moderated question-and-answer session.

This program is cosponsored by Columbia Global and the Columbia Business School.