Israeli-born mining executive Yoram Dvash named chairman of Botswana’s Okavango Diamond Company

Israeli-born executive Yoram Dvash has been appointed chairman of the Okavango Diamond Company, the Gaborone-based diamond marketing company wholly owned by the Botswana government.

Dvash takes over at a company that has an important role in Botswana’s diamond trade. Okavango Diamond Company, known as ODC, has access to 15 percent of Debswana’s run-of-mine production and sells about $900 million worth of diamonds a year.

Botswana diamond sector new leadership appointment

The company announced Dvash’s appointment in a recent statement, saying his experience as an entrepreneur, investor and diamond industry executive would add to the board as ODC works toward its business goals.

“We are pleased to welcome Yoram Dvash as chairman of the Okavango Diamond Company Board of Directors,” the company said. “A distinguished entrepreneur, investor and global industry leader, Yoram brings decades of leadership experience.”

Dvash said he was grateful for the opportunity and looked forward to working with the company’s board, management and the Botswana government. “Honored to take on this responsibility and grateful for the trust placed in me,” Dvash said. “I look forward to working with the Board, management and the Government of Botswana to help take ODC to greater heights.”

His appointment comes with extensive experience in the diamond business, international trade and investment. Through his new role, Dvash is expected to work with ODC’s leadership on improving profitability, expanding its international customer base and creating long-term value for Botswana.

Dvash leadership impact on diamond trade

Dvash founded Dvash Diamonds in 1991. The company grew into one of Israel’s leading diamond manufacturing and trading businesses, with customers and operations across several international markets.

He also recently completed his term as president of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, where he worked on issues including industry transparency, cooperation and the adoption of new technology.

During his time with the federation, Dvash founded GET-Diamonds, a digital trading platform that became the organization’s official trading platform. The system connects thousands of companies around the world and has helped bring more of the diamond trade online.

Dvash expands role in diamond trade

Before leading the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, Dvash served as president of the Israel Diamond Exchange and chairman of the Israel Diamond Institute. In those positions, he was involved in reforms aimed at improving governance, competitiveness and confidence in the diamond trade.

His business interests extend beyond diamonds. Dvash has also invested in venture capital, technology and real estate, while taking part in international economic development projects involving artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and infrastructure.

For ODC, his appointment brings a business executive with experience across the diamond supply chain and international markets at a time when the company is seeking to strengthen its position in the global diamond trade.