Antik Gems Namibia Diamond Polishing company on Friday unveiled its new state-of-the-art diamond polishing facility in Southern Industrial, Windhoek. 

Inaugurating the new facility, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said that development signifies the growth potential of the Namibian economy. 

In her speech read by the Minister of Mines and Industry, Frans Kapofi, the President said the opening of the new diamond cutting building by Ankit signals a very important moment for Namibia’s diamond industry. She said the decision by the Indian-based diamond polishing company to invest in Namibia is a sign of the two countries’ thriving relations as well as their commitment to reducing youth unemployment. 

“Namibia is globally one of the most prominent primary producers of high-quality diamonds. The diamond industry has historically been and continues to be one of the principal drivers of our economy. It contributes significantly to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), provides vital foreign earnings, and employs Namibians,” said the President. 

“The establishment of Ankit Gems Namibia Diamond Cutting aligns with the Namibian government’s overarching policy frameworks, such as the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6) and Vision 20230. This plant will not only strengthen our manufacturing base but will also be instrumental for the diversification of our natural resources and youth unemployment,” the statement read. 

Meanwhile, speaking at the same event, Ankit Namibia’s chairperson, Mikka Natangwe, shared how proud he was of the company’s growth since it entered the Namibian market. He said the company has grown from 15 workers to approximately 200 workers, which shows how much they have grown. 

“Ankit Gems is made up of Namibians and the Indian group. Our partnership commenced in March 2010 and has grown from strength to strength. What was pivotal for us, was the decision to use all the means necessary to add value to the stones by investing in technology, deploying expertise, and train without compromise he said.” 

“My emphasis here is also the fact that cutting diamonds, allocation was in our factory, eventually the perseverance paid off. On this note, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the ministries involved, DTC, NDTC, and our Indian partners. The team is confident to say that Namibia is well positioned to absorb all types, shapes, and sizes of diamonds. Inside this building, the latest state-of-the-art machines and equipment are continuously being sourced from global manufacturers who are in the business of research and development of technology that adds value to a diamond,” said Natangwe. 

Arun Shah, the chairperson of Ankit Gem said he is proud of the transition made by Ankit Namibia. “We are equally proud that over half of our skilled diamond polishers are women and each of them trained within our facilities, gaining valuable skills that will serve them for a lifetime. They are a testament to our belief in empowerment through knowledge and opportunity,” he said. -mkambukwe@nepc.com.na