Diamond Tycoon Maurice Tempelsman Dies at 95

[PODCAST]

Maurice Tempelsman, the Belgian-American diamond tycoon who played a pivotal role in shaping Namibia’s diamond industry, has died at the age of 95. He is remembered for helping to link founding president Sam Nujoma with De Beers executives, paving the way for the creation of Namdeb, but also for his controversial ties to African dictators, Cold War manoeuvres, and allegations of exerting undue influence over African leaders. 

In Namibia, his legacy is both praised and questioned. Desert FM is joined by economist Robin Sherbourne, who shares more on Namibia’s diamond industry and political economy.