As part of efforts to sustainably transform Côte d’Ivoire’s natural resources into a driver of development, Mamadou Sangafowa-Coulibaly, Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy, began a working visit to Gaborone, Botswana, on February 16, 2026. The objective of the mission is to draw lessons from Botswana’s model, widely recognized as a global benchmark in the strategic management of mineral resources.
At the start of his three-day visit, Minister Sangafowa-Coulibaly praised Botswana’s achievements during a meeting with his counterpart, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo. He commended the country’s ability to turn its mineral wealth particularly diamonds into a powerful engine for economic and social development.
“You have successfully transformed your mineral resources, especially diamonds, into a lever for economic and social progress. Revenues generated from mining have enabled the construction of infrastructure and improved the living standards of your citizens. It is a success we sincerely admire,” he stated.
According to the Ivorian minister, the true success of an extractive sector is not measured solely by the volume of discoveries, but by its capacity to generate sustainable, homegrown economic growth.
For her part, Minister Kenewendo welcomed the initiative, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen mining and energy sectors as pillars of enhanced bilateral cooperation. She emphasized the importance of expanding South-South partnerships between the two nations.
As part of the visit, Minister Sangafowa-Coulibaly toured the Jwaneng Mine on February 17, located about two hours from Gaborone. Nicknamed the “King of Mines” since its opening in 1982, Jwaneng is considered one of the richest diamond mines in the world.
Goitseone Gadifelen, the mine’s Managing Director, highlighted Botswana’s extensive expertise in the mining sector, developed over the past five decades. He noted that the country has even established a dedicated entity to promote its mining know-how internationally, reflecting Botswana’s willingness to share its experience.
“The Botswana model leaves a strong impression. It demonstrates how well-governed mineral resources can sustainably impact an economy. Infrastructure, healthcare, education, and elite training have all been developed through diamond revenues. This is the kind of transformation we aim to achieve in Côte d’Ivoire,” Minister Sangafowa-Coulibaly told the press after the visit.
It is worth noting that Botswana has been officially designated as the guest country of honor for the second edition of the International Exhibition of Extractive and Energy Resources – SIREXE, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 22, 2026, in Abidjan.