The new mine complements the company’s existing Letšeng diamond mine in Lesotho.
The company said: "Botswana is the world’s leading diamond producer and home to some of the largest, most profitable diamond mines, making this an ideal country for Gem Diamonds to operate in.
"Through a phased development plan, Ghaghoo is expected to emerge as part of a new generation of diamond mines in Botswana, with a core focus on ensuring that the highest benchmarks of excellence across health and safety and social and environmental impacts are achieved."
The mine was built after conducting a series of assessments related to the environment, local communities and social impacts of the Ghaghoo mine, to ensure that it complies with international standards, Gem Diamonds said.
On achieving full Phase 1 production, the mine is expected to create around 250 jobs in Botswana.
Phase 1 development is designed to identify the grade, diamond prices and the recovery processes, to increase diamond liberation.
Gem Diamonds CEO Clifford Elphick said: "This is a significant step forward for Gem Diamonds as a Company as we add another mine to our portfolio of producing assets.
"The potential of this ore body and the economic benefits to shareholders, employees and the Botswana nation will soon become evident."
Image: Ghaghoo is said to be the first underground diamond mine in Botswana. Photo: courtesy of Gem Diamonds Limited.
