AI-driven exploration spurs Botswana Diamonds diversification

by ODIRILE TOTENG

GABORONE – ONE of Botswana’s leading mining companies is aggressively tapping into artificial intelligence (AI) to boost output after this modern technology inspired it to diversify from diamond mining to more minerals.

Botswana Diamonds, the dual-listed company, has changed its name to Botswana Minerals in line with this diversification.

The firm revealed the recent application of an advanced AI model to its extensive 95 000 km² geological database had delivered exceptional results and led the board to expand the company’s strategic focus.

The initial focus of the AI analysis was on prospective diamond ground.

Officials stated this work delivered excellent results, identifying additional highly prospective diamond areas.

The rebranded company now holds new diamond-prospective licences and has defined a number of drilling targets.

Following the success of the diamond-focused AI work, the miner’s AI team confirmed that the model could be applied to identify prospectivity for other minerals.

Focus has shifted to copper, driven by its critical role in electrification and the global green energy transition.

Botswana Diamonds has identified several copper target areas.

Chairman, John Teeling, in an update to shareholders, noted the diamond industry was currently out of favour with investors.

“By applying AI analysis to our vast 95 000 km² Botswana geological database, our team identified strong copper prospectivity, a metal with a very robust future.”

He said the company had secured eight copper-prone licences and work would commence shortly to define the best drill targets.

“There is strong interest in these new licences,” Teeling said.

The company, listed on the Botswana and London Stock Exchanges, will trade under the new name effective Friday (February 27).

Globally, mining companies are leveraging AI to revolutionise exploration by analysing vast geological datasets, including satellite imagery, geochemical assays and geophysical surveys, to identify deposits.

– CAJ News