Botswana Diamonds has been granted environmental authorisation by the Botswana Department of Environmental Affairs and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism for drilling operations in the Kalahari.

The approval marks a significant step for the company as it aims to explore two gravity anomalies near its KX36 discovery.

The drilling programme is set to investigate two specific sites, spanning 12 hectares (ha) and 6ha, which are in proximity to the KX36 kimberlite pipe.

This exploration effort is expected to enhance the understanding of the region's diamond potential, especially considering the current non-operational status of the nearby Ghaghoo mine, situated roughly 60km from the KX36 site.

The KX36 project itself is a 3.5ha kimberlite pipe, housing substantial diamond resources. The indicated resources are reported at 17.9 million tonnes (mt) at 35 carats per hundred tonnes (cpht), with an additional 6.7mt at 36cpht classified as inferred.

The diamonds from this site hold an estimated value of up to $107/carat, with a modelled grade range between 57cpht and 76cpht.

Botswana Diamonds is actively seeking the necessary funds to commence its drilling programme, with plans to initiate the project during the Kalahari's dry season from April to October.

The company's progress in this venture is contingent on securing these funds in a timely manner.

Botswana Diamonds chairperson John Teeling said: “The receipt of environmental authorisation, following submission and approval of our environmental impact assessment, in Botswana is significant. We believe further diamond discoveries will be made in Botswana, and we believe the Kalahari will be the next diamond province in Botswana.

“We own 100% of KX36, a significant diamond discovery in the Kalahari, the sole kimberlite discovered in the area.

"Our work to date and ongoing analysis has identified anomalies in the vicinity of KX36 and the closed Ghaghoo mine 60km away. We now have the necessary approval to drill these targets.”