Country Insight

Botswana – The joint venture between De Beers and Botswana’s government has plans to cut at least 1,000 jobs (a fifth of its workforce) to contain costs following a fall in demand for diamonds last year.

Nigeria – Chinese foreign minister Yang Jiechi met his Nigerian counterpart minister Ojo Maduekwe on January 8 to discuss China’s increased investment in Nigeria’s electricity and oil industries.

Kenya – China gives Kenya a $7 million development grant. The agreement was reached during a visit to Nairobi by the Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, who is on a five-nation tour of Africa.