17^th August 2011

The new De Beers Group CEO, Mr Philippe Mellier will on Thursday August 18^th, 2011 visit Orapa and Letlhakane Mines (OLM) as part of his familiarisation of the De Beers Family of Companies (FoCs) operations, following his appointment earlier this year. During his visit to OLM, Mr Mellier will be taken through an update of OLM’s performance to date. He will also take a tour of the Orapa Mine, Debswana’s oldest operation.

Mr Mellier recently undertook a visit to the world’s richest mine by value, Jwaneng Mine where he was given an update on the performance of the Debswana operation. During his visit to Jwaneng Mine, he indicated that he was very excited to be at the “Prince of Mines” to get a fuller appreciation of the business that contributes significantly to Botswana and the FOCs.

Mr Mellier was appointed De Beers CEO in May, 2011 and took up his position last month.