Namibian President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah has unveiled a rare 176.29-carat natural diamond discovered at the Southern Coastal Mine in Oranjemund.
The diamond, named “Owishi,” was officially presented on Wednesday in recognition of its exceptional rarity and significance to Namibia’s mining industry.
According to the Presidency, “Owishi” is an Oshiwambo term referring to a rare type of honey found underground and considered notoriously difficult to locate.
The diamond was discovered by NAMDEB on May 10, 2026, and is reportedly the largest diamond of its kind recovered from the Southern Coastal Mine in the past 20 years.
Speaking at the unveiling, President Nandi Ndaitwah described the discovery as a significant milestone and a source of national pride, while highlighting the mining sector’s contribution to Namibia’s economy and national development.
She said the discovery further demonstrates Namibia’s position as a leading producer of high-quality, gem-grade natural diamonds.
The President also acknowledged the challenges facing the global diamond industry, including changing consumer preferences, fluctuations in international prices and increasing competition from laboratory-grown diamonds.
She commended Namibia’s diamond industry for its focus on responsible mining, ethical practices and environmental stewardship.
Nandi Ndaitwah further urged stakeholders to promote Namibian diamonds globally by emphasising their natural rarity, authenticity, ethical provenance and contribution to national development.
She cited Namibia’s 50/50 partnership between the government and the De Beers Group as an example of public-private cooperation in harnessing the country’s mineral resources for economic development.
The President also called for greater domestic participation in the diamond value chain, particularly through commercially viable investments in diamond cutting, polishing and jewellery manufacturing.
She stressed that the ultimate measure of Namibia’s natural-resource wealth should be its impact on citizens, saying the country’s mineral resources must translate into shared prosperity for Namibians.
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