COMMITTEES

[MUNUC 36] Diamonds are Forever: Cabinet of Sir Seretse Khama, 1967 Copy BOTSWANA

GROUP: Continuous Crisis

usg.cc@munuc.org

DELEGATION SIZE Single

EXECUTIVES

  • Ritwik Bose (he/him)
  • Khristian Bass (he/him)
Email Committee Chair

The year is 1967 and the Bechuanaland Protectorate has become the independent Republic of Botswana. This new nation, led by Sir Seretse Goitsebeng Maphiri Khama, is one of limited resources and population but the discovery of massive diamond deposits has sent a shock through the nation. Domestically, the discovery of these diamond deposits proved to be a major economic catalyst for this new nation, changing it from the agricultural economy that it once was. With great economic benefit, however, comes great responsibility.

As the cabinet of Sir Seretse Khama, you will be tasked with mitigating all of the issues that arise because of this sudden change—dealing with the fallout of the shift from agriculture and negotiating with companies that seem to want to take advantage of the mines. Beyond the economic and upfront issues of the committee, the cabinet will have to deal with public health, environmental and other issues that may arise as a consequence of being a young state. In addition to these issues, the influence of foreign powers both on the continent and abroad pose a great risk for this young government, especially as news of the diamond deposits spread. Will you help this fledgling nation find its identity and grow in power, or will you step to the wayside and allow it to fall to the contentious issues that will arise? 

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