Anglo American has commissioned the Benguela Gem diamond recovery vessel at diamond mining operation it is running alongside De Beers and the Government of Namibia.

The mining company stated that the Benguela Gen would add an additional 500,000 carats of high-value diamonds to annual marine production, an increase of 45%, following an investment of $420 million - $210 million of which was made by Anglo American.

Mark Cutifani, Chief Executive of Anglo American, said: "The commissioning of the Benguela Gem ahead of schedule and below budget marks further progress towards Anglo American's margin-enhancing organic growth of more than 20% over the next three years.

"This additional vessel further enhances the production of some of the highest quality and value diamonds in the world while delivering sustained economic benefits for Namibia."

Bruce Cleaver, CEO of De Beers Group, said the Benguela Gem is the first of its kind and would support a long-term, sustainable future for Namibia's diamond sector.