JVC Welcomes Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Botswana's Minerals Minister
February 23, 25
PRESS RELEASE
JVC WELCOMES BOTSWANA'S MINISTER OF MINERALS ENERGY, HONORABLE BOGOLO JOY KENEWENDO,FOR EXCLUSIVE FIRESIDE CHAT ON THE FUTURE OF DIAMONDS
NEW YORK, NY, FEBRUARY 20, 2025: The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) has
announced that the Honorable Bogolo Kenewendo, Botswana's Minister of Minerals and
Energy, will headline its annual luncheon on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the Pierre Hotel in New
York City.
A globally recognized leader in economic development and trade, Minister Kenewendo played a
pivotal role in shaping the landmark 10-year diamond sales agreement between De Beers and
the Government of Botswana; the deal is set to significantly boost market confidence and
impact the global diamond supply chain for years to come.
In an exclusive fireside chat with JVC President, CEO & General Counsel, Sara E. Yood, Esq.,
Minister Kenewendo will provide firsthand insight into Botswana's evolving role in the diamond
industry, the future of diamond sourcing, and what U.S. jewelry businesses should anticipate as
Botswana increases its direct diamond sales.
Minister Kenewendo is one of Africa's most influential economic leaders, frequently recognized
for her impact on global trade and development. In 2022, she was named a TIME100 Next
honoree, highlighting her as one of the world's most dynamic emerging leaders shaping the
future of global policy and commerce.
Minister Kenewendo led key trade negotiations resulting in key agreements, including the
European Union Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), the United Kingdom Post-Brexit
Agreement, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Her extensive leadership
includes roles as Chairperson of Bank Gaborone, Non-Executive Director of the Africa Free
Trade Area Adjustment Fund Corporation, Board Member of Ice Benchmark and advisor to
governments and international institutions on trade, economic development policy and climate
finance.
She has also served on the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council, the United Nations
Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation, and the World Economic Forum's
Trade Advisory Group.
"We are honored to host Minister Kenewendo for this critical discussion on the future of
diamonds and Botswana's growing influence in our industry," said Sara Yood, Esq. "This
agreement marks a new era in diamond sourcing, and it's essential for U.S. jewelry executives
to understand the long-term implications. Minister Kenewendo's firsthand knowledge and
strategic insights will provide unparalleled value to our audience."
Tickets and sponsorships for this year's annual luncheon, which kicks off the 24 Karat Club of
NY weekend in New York, are available at: https://jvclegal.org/2025-annual-luncheon-event-
sponsorship/
About the Jewelers Vigilance Committee:
Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) is the jewelry industry's independent legal expert. For
more than 100 years, member-supported JVC has helped jewelers build flourishing businesses
that operate with the highest levels of integrity, legal, and regulatory compliance. JVC educates
and trains jewelry industry members about their rights and responsibilities as business owners,
employers, suppliers, designers, manufacturers, marketers, and sellers of jewelry. As the
industry's legal advocate, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee liaises with U.S. and international
judicial and regulatory bodies on issues that impact livelihoods, acting as a mediator to settle
jewelry-related disputes, without court intervention. JVC is the industry's trusted resource,
committed to safeguarding the reputation, integrity and vitality of the gem, jewelry, and watch
trade. https://jvclegal.org/