(Ecofin Agency) - Active since 2012, Lucara Diamond's Karowe Mine in Botswana will shift from open-pit to underground mining by 2028. This change coincides with adjustments in the company’s leadership.

Melissa Harmon has joined Lucara Diamond’s Board of Directors. The firm announced her appointment on March 3, noting that Harmon, an engineer, will help bolster the $683 million underground expansion project at Lucara’s Karowe diamond mine in Botswana.

Paul Conibear, Chairman of Lucara, highlighted Harmon’s safety and underground mining operations expertise. “We look forward to having the benefits of her insight and appreciate her willingness to serve as a director,” he stated. 

Lucara expects the underground project to be completed by 2028. The project, which should extend Karowe's mine life to at least 2040, is also expected to generate $1.1 billion in cash flow. 

However, given that the global diamond market has been weak recently, Lucara’s investment will be profitable depending on long-term price and demand recovery.

This article was initially published in French by Emiliano Tossou

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho