Botswana's President Ian Khama was sworn in for his second term Tuesday after winning re-election with a reduced majority, pledging to intensify efforts to diversify the economy and eradicate poverty. Khama's Botswana Democratic Party has ruled the diamond-rich southern African nation since independence in 1966, but many voters complained of growing economic strain and unemployment. The 61-year-old Khama took the oath of office at parliament, in a ceremony followed by a 21 gun salute and a flypast by military aircraft.
In his inaugural speech, Khama said "the key to achieving sustainable diversified economic growth and social security lies in the development of our people" through improved education and skills. He said the government would focus on "emerging opportunities within the mineral sector" and development of other sectors such as agriculture and tourism. Botswana produces around 30 percent of the world's diamonds by value, and received a boost in 2012 when mining giant De Beers moved its diamond sorting business to the capital Gaborone.