Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry

January 14, 2009

Here is a nice little endorsement, even if it got scant publicity … In her confirmation hearings yesterday to be Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, when asked about foreign aid to countries with mineral wealth, said:

[W]e should look at the models of countries that have handled their mineral wealth to the advantage of their people. Botswana comes to mind. They’ve been very good stewards of their diamonds and have invested in roads and schools and infrastructure in Botswana.

The fact that her knowledge of this surprised many people seemingly knowledgeable about the world (see here and here) shows there is quite an education process still to be done.

Posted by Rob Bates on January 14, 2009 | Comments (6)

January 19, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
wonk commented:

It's not surprising Hillary would know this. The "resource curse" has been a major discussion topic amongst think-tank wonks like me and there are lots articles about Botswana in journals that circulate in these circle. It proves she reads them and is versed on this important issue, and that's a very good thing

January 19, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
Paresh Das commented:

The diamond industry alongwith with African Govt's have been talking about " BENEFICIATION that's the key to future progress. Well said Mrs Hillary Clinton...Congratulations !!!

January 16, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
thapelo commented:

its quite true mrs clinton. all the best

January 15, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
Keke commented:

Wow! She still remembers facts about Botswana. She came here as first lady in the late 90s and for here to still remember the success story is quite impressive. We wish her all the best in her new job. Bye

January 15, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
Mothusi commented:

Hillary is absolutely right. Rest of the world sees Africa only in failure, but clearly Botswana has utilized its mineral resources to the benefit of its citizens. Kudos Hillary, we wish you the best in your new job.

January 14, 2009

In response to: Hillary Clinton Praises Botswana's Diamond Industry
gilbert commented:

This book is quite instructiv about Botswana diamonds for development. Masire: Memoirs of an African Democrat Author: Quett Ketumile Joni Masire ISBN: 9991240489

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