D.E.F.’s A UNITED KINGDOM showcases in U.S.

The movie chronicles the early years of Botswana’s rise from poverty to its present status as second largest producer of diamonds in the world Diamond Empowerment Fund’s -‘ A UNITED KINGDOM movie made its debut U.S. showcasing at the Roxy Hotel Cinema in the presence of honored guests including H.E. Mr. David John Newman, Ambassador of the Republic of Boswana to the United States, H.E. Mr. Charles T. Ntwaagae, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Botswana and Dr. Edgar Sisa, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Botswana to the United Nations.

Starring David Oyelewo and Rosamund Pike, the movie chronicles the early years of Botswana’s rise from poverty its present state as the second largest producer of diamonds in the world. A release for the general public is slated on February 10.

D.E.F Board member Marcus ter Haar, and grandson of the films’ protagonists Seretse Khama (played by David Oyelowo) and Ruth Williams (played by Rosamund Pike) gave a poignant introduction to the film, recounting the emotional connection he has with the film’s characters and drawing an arc of the prosperity Botswana has seen in the 50 years since the movie’s end. “Through the ethical leadership and wise management of Botswana’s diamond resources by Seretse Khama and the country’s successive Presidents, our nation has thrived politically and economically as the oldest democracy in Africa, providing its citizens with broad based access to education, healthcare and world class infrastructure.”

Anna Martin, newly elected president of the Diamond Empowerment Fund, urges all members of the diamond industry to see this film. “Botswana is a perfect example to share with colleagues and customers alike how much Diamonds Do Good. This positive message needs to be the cornerstone of industry communications to the public so that a more balanced narrative surrounding diamonds can prevail.”

Sponsors of the screening included Signet (Kay Jewelers, Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, Zales), GIA and Fox Searchlight Pictures.