Second Largest Diamond in History Discovered in Africa
Botswana Discovers Second Largest Diamond in Human History
Africa is blessed with mineral resources and there is no country you go on the continent without diverse mineral resources in abundance. It came as a surprise to many that the second-biggest diamond in history was found in a small country with little popularity and it is worth a huge amount of money.
Second Largest Diamond in History Found in Botswana
A small mining firm in Botswana has successfully mined the second-largest diamond in history at the Karowe mine in Botswana, Southern Africa. The 2,492 2,492-carat diamond weighs about a pound and is the size of a baseball.
The uncut diamond was about 600 carats shy of the largest in human history found in South Africa in 1905. Though the rough diamond has not been thoroughly assessed, it is believed to be worth tens of millions of dollars in the market. It may end up with more worth if it is found to be a gem-quality rock. This diamond was discovered through X-ray technology.
The Mining Firm’s Stock Rose by 91%
Lucara Diamond Corp, the mining company that discovered this gemstone has witnessed a significant surge in its stock price share. Shares had surged 91% barely 48 hours after the announcement of the discovery. The company’s market value has risen to roughly $40 million after the announcement.
The Canadian mining firm’s shares traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange at $0.63, which was nearly double some 24 hours before the announcement. The company’s stock has since consolidated its gains at 33% a few days after the discovery.
A History of Discovery
Lucara Diamond Corp is known for its history of making great discoveries. In 2015, the company discovered a 1,109-carat gem diamond at the same mine and it was eventually sold at $53 million. Since 2015, the company has discovered many more gem-quality diamonds in different mines across Botswana. The latest feat has shown its commitment to improving trade and commerce in Botswana.
The 2,492-carat diamond was presented to Botswana’s president a few days after discovery and the news was widely celebrated by the people. The company had used its X-ray transmission technology to discover the piece. The X-Ray technology was installed by the company in 2017 to discover and preserve high-value diamonds.
According to the mining company, the discovery showcases the company’s remarkable potential to manage and explore Karowe Mine, while upholding its strategic management and investment in cutting-edge XRT technology.
The Challenges in the Mining Industry Persists
Lucara Diamond Corp was quick to point out the numerous challenges still being faced in the mining industry in Africa. The major challenge is that of declining prices of raw diamonds, brought about by laboratory-grown gems. The laboratory manufacture of diamonds was brought about by the difficulty of locating and extracting natural diamonds without breaking them.
In addition to falling prices due to lab-grown diamonds, there seem to be issues with the safety of miners in mines. A substantial number of miners have been killed in mines across Africa in the past decades in accidents and through other security challenges. It is also important to mention that miners are still being paid little compared to the effort they put in place during work hours.
Aside Botswana there are many African countries where diamonds and many other precious minerals are being mined daily. Congo DRC for instance is believed to provide the world with the precious metals used in the making of iPhones. Nigeria and Angola are some of the largest oil producers in the world, while many parts of east and Southern Africa are known for huge Gold deposits.
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About the Creator
Emma Ade
Emma is an accomplished freelance writer with strong passion for investigative storytelling and keen eye for details. Emma has crafted compelling narratives in diverse genres, and continue to explore new ideas to push boundaries.
Germany’s Nationalist AfD Party Hopes to Take Power in 2026
Germany’s political landscape is facing a potential shift as the nationalist Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party sets its sights on the 2026 elections. Known for its right-wing populist agenda, anti-immigration rhetoric, and Euroscepticism, the AfD has steadily gained traction over the past decade. While mainstream parties continue to dominate national politics, analysts warn that the AfD’s growing influence could reshape Germany’s policy direction and challenge the country’s longstanding commitment to liberal democracy. The Origins of the AfD Founded in 2013, the AfD initially positioned itself as a Eurosceptic party, opposing the European Union’s handling of the eurozone crisis. Over time, the party shifted its focus toward nationalist and anti-immigration policies, tapping into public frustration over migration, globalization, and perceived threats to German cultural identity. The party has also adopted a strong stance against climate regulations and progressive social policies, appealing to conservative voters who feel alienated by Germany’s traditional political parties. These positions have allowed the AfD to carve out a niche in Germany’s fragmented political landscape. Recent Electoral Gains The AfD has seen steady growth in regional and national elections. In the 2021 federal elections, the party captured around 10% of the vote, becoming the third-largest party in the Bundestag. Its support is particularly strong in eastern Germany, where economic disparities, historical resentment, and dissatisfaction with mainstream politics have contributed to its rise. Political analysts note that the AfD’s success is not only electoral but also cultural. By dominating media narratives on immigration and national identity, the party has shifted public debate and forced mainstream parties to respond to issues they might otherwise have avoided. The 2026 Ambitions Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, the AfD aims to increase its share of seats and, potentially, enter government coalitions at both state and federal levels. Party leaders have emphasized a platform focused on reducing immigration, reforming the European Union, and rolling back environmental regulations. Some strategists within the party believe that growing concerns over energy costs, economic inequality, and social change could bolster voter support. By framing itself as a defender of “traditional German values,” the AfD hopes to attract both its core base and disillusioned voters from the center-right spectrum. Controversies and Criticism The AfD’s rise has not been without controversy. Critics accuse the party of promoting xenophobia, undermining democratic norms, and fostering extremist tendencies. Multiple AfD members have faced scrutiny for inflammatory remarks, associations with far-right groups, and attempts to normalize nationalist rhetoric. Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has labeled parts of the AfD as “suspected extremist,” monitoring its activities closely. Opposition parties argue that allowing the AfD into power could threaten Germany’s democratic institutions and international reputation. Public Perception and Support Despite criticism, the AfD retains a loyal voter base. Many supporters argue that the party addresses real concerns about immigration, economic stagnation, and EU bureaucracy that they feel are ignored by mainstream parties. Polls suggest that younger voters and urban populations are less supportive of the AfD, while older, rural, and economically disadvantaged communities continue to provide the party with significant backing. Analysts believe that the 2026 elections could hinge on turnout in these demographic groups. Implications for Germany and Europe The AfD’s potential rise has implications beyond Germany’s borders. As Europe faces migration pressures, energy crises, and political polarization, the success of a nationalist party in one of the continent’s largest economies could inspire similar movements in other countries. European Union leaders have expressed concern that an AfD-led government might adopt policies that clash with EU regulations, potentially straining relations with neighboring countries and weakening cohesion in European decision-making. Challenges Ahead While the AfD hopes to gain power, it faces significant obstacles. Mainstream parties, including the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD), are actively campaigning to prevent the AfD from entering government. Additionally, voter concerns about extremism, international relations, and social stability may limit the party’s growth. Coalition-building will also be a challenge. Many parties have ruled out working with the AfD, meaning that even a strong electoral showing may not translate into executive power. Analysts predict that the AfD’s influence may grow through parliamentary presence rather than direct governance. The Role of Media and Messaging The AfD has been adept at using social media and alternative media platforms to bypass traditional journalistic filters. By framing itself as a voice for the “ignored majority,” the party appeals to voters who distrust mainstream institutions. At the same time, investigative journalism and public awareness campaigns have sought to highlight the party’s extremist tendencies and controversial rhetoric. This ongoing battle over narrative and perception will be crucial in shaping the 2026 elections. Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Germany As Germany approaches 2026, the rise of the AfD represents both an opportunity and a challenge for the nation. For supporters, the party embodies a chance to restore national pride and prioritize domestic concerns. For critics, it threatens to destabilize democratic norms and exacerbate social divisions. The upcoming elections will test Germany’s resilience, political maturity, and commitment to pluralism. Whether the AfD succeeds in taking power or remains a powerful opposition force, its impact on Germany’s political discourse—and the broader European context—will be felt for years to come.
By Aarif Lashari2 days ago in The Swamp
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