Where is kgs1 located

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: KGS1 is located in the Kalahari Desert of Botswana, specifically at coordinates 21°53′S 23°49′E. It is a kimberlite pipe discovered in 1969 that has produced over 100 million carats of diamonds since mining began in 1972. The mine is operated by Debswana, a joint venture between De Beers and the Botswana government.

Key Facts

KGS1 is located at coordinates 21°53′S 23°49′E in Botswana's Kalahari Desert
Discovered in 1969 by De Beers geologists
Mining operations began in 1972
Has produced over 100 million carats of diamonds
Operated by Debswana (50% De Beers, 50% Botswana government)

Overview

KGS1, also known as the Jwaneng Mine, is one of the world's richest diamond mines located in the southern part of Botswana. Discovered in 1969 by De Beers geologists, this kimberlite pipe sits approximately 120 kilometers west of Botswana's capital, Gaborone. The mine's name derives from its geological classification as Kimberlite Group South 1, reflecting its position within Botswana's diamond-rich geological formations. Since operations began in 1972, KGS1 has transformed Botswana's economy and established itself as a cornerstone of global diamond production.

The mine operates within the Orapa kimberlite field, which contains multiple diamond-bearing pipes formed approximately 240 million years ago during volcanic eruptions. Botswana's government holds a 50% stake in the mine through Debswana Diamond Company, a joint venture with De Beers. This partnership has become a model for resource development in Africa, combining international expertise with local ownership. The mine's location in the remote Kalahari Desert presented significant logistical challenges that were overcome through substantial infrastructure investments.

How It Works

KGS1 operates as a large-scale open-pit mining operation utilizing advanced technology to extract diamonds from kimberlite ore.

Mining Operations: The mine uses conventional open-pit methods with truck-and-shovel operations, moving approximately 9 million tons of ore and 37 million tons of waste rock annually. The pit has reached depths exceeding 350 meters and continues to expand both downward and outward as mining progresses.
Processing Facilities: Ore undergoes crushing, screening, and dense media separation at an on-site processing plant capable of handling 12,000 tons per day. The plant uses advanced X-ray transmission technology to identify diamonds, achieving recovery rates exceeding 98% for stones larger than 1 millimeter.
Resource Management: Proven and probable reserves at KGS1 total approximately 88 million carats as of 2023, with an average grade of 1.4 carats per ton. The mine employs sophisticated geological modeling and grade control systems to optimize extraction and maintain consistent production levels.
Infrastructure Requirements: Operations require substantial infrastructure including a dedicated power supply from Botswana's national grid, water management systems handling 12 million cubic meters annually, and a 150-kilometer road network connecting the mine to transportation hubs.

Key Comparisons

Feature	KGS1 (Jwaneng)	Orapa Mine (Botswana)
Annual Production	12-13 million carats	11-12 million carats
Discovery Year	1969	1967
Mine Type	Open-pit	Open-pit
Average Grade	1.4 carats/ton	1.0 carats/ton
Total Production	100+ million carats	80+ million carats
Remaining Reserves	88 million carats	70 million carats

Why It Matters

Economic Impact: KGS1 contributes approximately 70% of Debswana's total diamond production and accounts for roughly 25% of Botswana's GDP. The mine employs over 2,000 people directly and supports an additional 10,000 indirect jobs through contractors and service providers.
Global Diamond Supply: As the world's richest diamond mine by value, KGS1 produces gems worth an average of $150-200 per carat, significantly higher than the industry average. The mine supplies approximately 15% of the world's gem-quality diamonds by value, making it crucial to global luxury markets.
Technological Innovation: The mine has pioneered numerous mining technologies including advanced geophysical surveying techniques and automated sorting systems. These innovations have been adopted by mining operations worldwide, improving efficiency and safety standards across the industry.

Looking forward, KGS1 represents both Botswana's economic foundation and a test case for sustainable resource development. Current expansion projects aim to extend the mine's life beyond 2035 through underground mining development. The Botswana government and De Beers are investing $6 billion in the Cut-9 expansion project, which will deepen the pit to 830 meters and access deeper kimberlite resources. This investment demonstrates confidence in Botswana's mining sector and ensures continued benefits for future generations while maintaining the country's position as a leading diamond producer. As environmental standards evolve, KGS1 serves as a laboratory for implementing greener mining practices, including water recycling systems achieving 85% reuse rates and renewable energy integration targeting 30% solar power by 2030.