His Life and Legacy

Early Life and Education

Albert Milton was born on July 19, 1962, in Jackalas No. 2, North-East District, Botswana, to Milton Ngondo and Maria Milton. He began his primary education at Jackalas 2 and Siviya Primary Schools, and then proceeded to Shashe Secondary School. Albert pursued higher education at the Camborne School of Mines in England, where he attained a Bachelor of Engineering Honours Degree in Mining Engineering. He furthered his education with the Executive Development Programme from the London Business School and received extensive training in Operational Leadership Excellence facilitated by Gap International Consultants.

Career and Achievements

Albert’s career in mining spanned over thirty-four years with Debswana Diamond Company, where he rose through the ranks and gained extensive experience at both operational and strategic levels. His career highlights include:

• Morupule Coal Mine (MCM): Albert led the expansion of MCM from one million to 3.2 million tonnes per annum to meet national energy demands. He also spearheaded the re-branding of MCM and initiated efforts to penetrate seaborne markets.
• Jwaneng Mine: As General Manager from 2013 to November 2018, Albert oversaw the safe and timely delivery of the multi-billion Pula Cut 8 Project. This project, which started producing kimberlite ore in 2016, became Jwaneng Mine’s main ore source from 2018. It was delivered on time and on budget, achieving a remarkable safety record with a Total Recovery Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) of zero in 2017. The project extended Jwaneng Mine’s life to 2031.
• Edge 360° Programme: While at Jwaneng Mine, Albert introduced the Edge 360° programme to enhance productivity and efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings and reorganization of the mine as a fit-for-purpose outfit.
• Managing Director of Debswana: Appointed on December 1, 2018, Albert managed the commencement of the multi-billion Pula Cut 9 Project and guided the technical studies for the Cut 3 Project at Orapa Mine, aiming to extend Botswana’s diamond production capabilities.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Albert married Albertinah in 1997, and they had three daughters and one son. Both shared a passion for cycling, organizing major events that served as tests of endurance and raised funds for charity. Albert was also deeply involved in community development projects, including the establishment of the annual Morupule Cycle Challenge and the merging of various football clubs into the Jwaneng Galaxy Football Club. These initiatives have significantly contributed to the social capital of Palapye and Jwaneng.

Legacy and Memory

Albert Milton is remembered as a true gentleman who embodied kindness, generosity, and a passion for life. His cheerful demeanor, big smile, and hearty laugh will be missed by all who knew him. His commitment to fitness and community development left a lasting impact, uplifting livelihoods through better healthcare, improved learning environments, and access to water.

Albert Milton’s life was a testament to his dedication, leadership, and enduring legacy of excellence and service.