In a significant celebration of Botswana’s illustrious diamond heritage, Miss Botswana 2024, Anicia Gaothusi, along with her Princesses, Halle Hirshfeld and Sebaga Manyepetsa, made a special visit to Lucara Botswana’s Karowe Mine in Orapa/Letlhakane on June 25, 2024. This visit not only honoured Lucara Botswana as one of the principal sponsors of the Miss Botswana pageant but also highlighted the intricate relationship between beauty, culture, and the country’s rich mineral resources.

During her tour of the Karowe Mine, Ms. Gaothusi immersed herself in the very environment where some of Botswana’s most magnificent diamonds have been unearthed. The tour allowed her to witness firsthand the incredible journey these precious gems take from the earth to becoming iconic masterpieces. Among the notable treasures is the renowned Messika Akh-Ba-Ka diamond set, which graced the likes of Miss World Africa, Lesego Chombo, during the 71st Miss World Festival in India, and was recently showcased by Portur Christiano Ronaldo at the Champions League draw in Monaco when he wore the Messika Akh-Ba-Ka brooch.

Accompanied by the Miss Botswana team and esteemed executive from LUCARA Botswana, including Mr. Benjamin Raletsatsi, the Director of Miss World Botswana, and Ms. Naseem Banu Lahri, the Managing Director of LUCARA Botswana, Ms, Gaothusi and her Princesses explored the operations and history of the mine. This unique experience provided them with a comprehensive understanding of the global impact of Botswana’s diamond industry, emphasising its significance in the local economy and beyond.

The visit was not merely a tour but a memorable occasion that celebrated Botswana’s rich heritage and the remarkable journey of its diamonds, from their origins deep within the earth to becoming cherished pieces of jewellery admired worldwide. It highlighted the importance of collaboration between beauty and industry, showcasing how initiatives like the Miss World Botswana pageant can inspire and empower future generations while honouring the nation’s precious resources.

LUCARA Botswana has long been a steadfast supporter of the Miss Botswana pageant recognizing the platform’s vital role in empowering young women and promoting the beauty of Botswana. Their unwavering contributions have elevated the pageant to new heights, festering invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth among its contestants.