Photo by Justice Hubane on Unsplash

The history of Gaborone, now Botswana’s capital, reflects a complex intersection of precolonial migration, colonial administrative politics, regional geopolitics, and early nation-building. The attached document traces this development from the settlement of the Batlokwa under Kgosi Gaborone in the late nineteenth century to the city’s eventual selection and construction as the national capital in the 1960s.

Precolonial and Early Colonial Foundations

The origins of Gaborone lie in the migration of the Batlokwa people under Kgosi Gaborone, who settled at Moshaweng around 1887. The land was obtained from Kgosi Sechele, the Bakwena chief, in exchange for livestock and money. This early settlement became the nucleus of what would later be named Gaborone.

However, the territory soon became entangled in British imperial expansion. In the late nineteenth century, the British administration acquired portions of the area to secure a route for Cecil Rhodes’ railway linking Mafikeng to Bulawayo the so-called “Road to the North.” In 1905, the land was transferred to the British South Africa Company (BSAC), which sought to consolidate regional control and exploit mineral opportunities.

The Batlokwa’s tenure was threatened when BSAC planned to relocate the community following Chief Gaborone’s death. Yet the chief’s longevity (he died in 1931) delayed this process; meanwhile, the Batlokwa continued to occupy the land, paying an annual rental. After 1933, the area was formalized as a Batlokwa Reserve, covering approximately 67 square miles and housing roughly 2,000 people by 1946. This reserve sat adjacent to Crown Land, which became critical decades later as potential territory for a national administrative centre.

The Area’s Strategic and Symbolic Importance

Beyond its local ethnic history, the broader Gaborone region held earlier historical significance. In 1847, missionary David Livingstone established the Kolobeng Mission nearby. During the Second Anglo-Boer War, the area served as a supply route for British forces and the site of limited skirmishes, including one at Crocodile Pools (present-day Notwane Siding). These episodes linked the region to broader southern African political and military dynamics long before independence.

Within the Protectorate administration, Gaborone already hosted essential governmental services including the Police Training Depot and Public Works Department making it a functional administrative node even when Mafikeng (located in South Africa) served as the official capital.

The Capital Relocation Debate

The movement to relocate the capital from Mafikeng (South Africa) to within the Bechuanaland Protectorate developed gradually over several decades and was shaped by a multilayered political environment involving:

• The British Government
• The Protectorate Administration
• The South African Government
• Elected or advisory bodies such as the European Advisory Council, Joint Advisory Council, and later the Legislative Council
• Local political leaders and traditional chiefs

In 1946, the European Advisory Council first recommended relocating the capital, arguing that a local seat of government would strengthen political autonomy and produce economic benefits. These arguments resurfaced in 1951, when the issue again gained momentum.

A 1953 government survey identified the Bokaa/Pilane area as the most suitable location for a new capital. Economic constraints, however, halted progress. The cost estimated at £600,000 to £700,000(£21,408,000 t0 £24,976,000 in today’s money) was deemed prohibitive.

Shifting Geopolitical Pressures (Late 1950s–Early 1960s)

By the late 1950s, the Protectorate’s political circumstances had changed substantially:

1. Increased African political participation through new representative bodies.
2. Legal and practical difficulties created by situating the capital in South Africa (e.g., pass regulations affecting African civil servants).
3. South Africa’s withdrawal from the Commonwealth (1961), which dissolved the logic of maintaining the capital in a foreign state.
4. A broader process of institutional modernization, including the growth of party politics and constitutional reforms.

In this climate, the move became both politically necessary and symbolically meaningful.

Selection of Gaborone as the Capital

In 1959, a committee of experts was appointed to reassess possible capital sites. Their report, presented to the Legislative Council in 1961, recommended Gaborone on the basis of:

• the availability of large tracts of unencumbered Crown Land
• lower construction costs
• a favourable geographical position near major road and rail lines
• potential for urban expansion

The Legislative Council accepted the recommendation in September 1961. Crucially, the chiefs of the Protectorate supported the move and even offered tribal lands should they be required an indicator of the relocation’s alignment with indigenous political priorities.

Construction and Transfer (1962–1965)

Following approval:

• In 1962, Britain authorized funds for a second technical survey.
• Construction began soon after, with the Gaborone Dam (1963–1964) serving as the foundational project enabling water supply to the new city.
• Contracts were awarded to British, South African, and Rhodesian companies, with the firm Richard-Costain Ltd. completing significant portions of the work.
• By early 1965, infrastructure for government offices and basic residential housing was largely complete.
• On 5 February 1965, the first wave of civil servants about 150 families relocated from Mafikeng.

The transfer aligned with preparations for the 1965 general elections, which marked the introduction of internal self-government and set the stage for independence in 1966.

Symbolic Significance and Nation-Building

The document emphasizes the capital’s symbolic value. Gaborone was envisioned as:

• a neutral, centrally located city
• a unifying symbol capable of bridging regional divides
• a site where multi-racial democracy could be nurtured
• a modern administrative centre expressing the country’s political aspirations

Political leaders such as Sir Seretse Khama and Quett Masire articulated the capital’s role in fostering cohesion and promoting a new civic identity. Gaborone was imagined as a “new Eden,” representing not merely administrative convenience but the forging of a national consciousness.

Location & Geography

Gaborone is located in the southeastern part of Botswana, roughly fifteen kilometres from the border with South Africa, giving it a strategically important position in the country’s transport and economic network. The city lies within a wide, gently sloping valley at an elevation of about 1,000 metres, framed by two notable granite hills: Kgale Hill to the southwest and Oodi Hill to the northeast. These ancient rock formations shape the city’s physical layout, provide natural landmarks, and influence drainage and land-use planning. The Notwane River, a tributary of the Limpopo, flows through the southern part of the city and supplies the Gaborone Dam, a critical water reservoir in this otherwise water-scarce region. With a hot semi-arid climate, Gaborone receives most of its rain between November and March, making water management central to its growth. The surrounding environment consists mainly of savanna vegetation, including acacia trees, thorny shrubs, and drought-resistant grasses typical of the Kalahari ecotone. Over time, Gaborone has expanded into the surrounding plains to form the Greater Gaborone metropolitan area, incorporating rapidly growing settlements such as Tlokweng, Mogoditshane, Metsimotlaba, Gabane and Mmopane. Its geographic position, climate, and landscape have all played important roles in shaping the city’s development, ecological challenges, and function as Botswana’s main administrative and economic centre.

Key Attractions & Landmarks

• Gaborone Dam
• Gaborone Game Reserve
• Kgale Hill (“The Sleeping Giant”)
• Three Dikgosi (Three Chiefs) Monument
• National Museum & Art Gallery (Botswana National Museum)
• Thapong Visual Arts Centre
• National Botanical Garden
• Mokolodi Nature Reserve
• Botswana National Stadium
• Matsieng Footprints (slightly outside city)

Demographic Breakdown(2022–2025)

1. Age Structure
   • Statistics Botswana reports a greater share of population under 20 among males, while older age brackets tend to have more females.
2. Sex Ratio (2022)
   • In Gaborone census district (2022), there were 118,729 males vs 127,598 females, giving a sex ratio of 93.0 males per 100 females in Gaborone.
3. Growth / Population Change
   • Gaborone’s population rose from 231,592 in 2011 to 246,327 in 2022, with an annual growth rate of ~0.62% over that period.
   • This growth is partly driven by internal migration, as Gaborone is a major urban centre attracting people from rural areas (though exact city-level migration inflows/outflows are not publicly broken down in the census report).
4. Ethnicity
   • Gaborone is a ethnic diverse city and has a mixed representation of all the local tribes

Economy

Gaborone functions as the central economic engine of Botswana, reflecting the country’s broader transition from a resource-dependent economy to a more diversified, service-driven model. As the national capital, the city hosts the headquarters of major financial institutions including the Bank of Botswana, the Botswana Stock Exchange, and numerous commercial banks cementing its role as the hub of the national financial system. Historically, Botswana’s economy has been anchored in diamond mining, and Gaborone remains closely tied to this sector through institutions such as Debswana and diamond sorting and valuation facilities. However, the city’s economic landscape has expanded significantly through deliberate diversification efforts, with the government promoting Special Economic Zones (SEZs), particularly the Fairgrounds SEZ, to attract investment in financial services, ICT, business process outsourcing, and innovation-driven enterprises. Gaborone’s service sector, encompassing public administration, retail, hospitality, and telecommunications, contributes substantially to employment and urban economic activity. The city also benefits from business tourism, supported by its modern hotels, conference venues, and transport infrastructure.

Nevertheless, Gaborone faces structural economic challenges, including high dependence on external diamond markets, infrastructure constraints in water and power supply, and a labour market that must absorb a growing young population. Recent national economic strategies emphasise the development of a knowledge-based economy, greater value-addition in mineral processing, and the strengthening of the private sector. As a result, Gaborone is positioning itself not only as the administrative heart of Botswana but also as an emerging regional financial and innovation hub.

The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are one of the largest salt flats in the world, located in the northeastern part of Botswana. These vast, desolate salt pans are remnants of the ancient Lake Makgadikgadi, which once covered a significant portion of the Kalahari Desert. The pans span approximately 12,000 square kilometers and are a unique geological and ecological feature in Southern Africa. Makgadikgadi is technically not a single pan, but many pans with sandy desert in between, the largest being the Sua (Sowa), Ntwetwe and Nxai Pans.

Geology and Formation

Ancient Lake Makgadikgadi

The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are the vestiges of a prehistoric super lake, Lake Makgadikgadi, which existed during the Pleistocene epoch. This lake was fed by rivers from the surrounding highlands and was much larger than present-day Lake Victoria. Over time, climatic changes led to the gradual evaporation of the lake, leaving behind a series of salt flats, seasonal lakes, and fossilized shorelines.

Salt Pan Structure

The pans are primarily composed of sodium carbonate and other salts, creating a hard, crusty surface. During the dry season, the pans are arid and starkly white, reflecting the intense sunlight. In contrast, the rainy season transforms parts of the pans into shallow, temporary lakes that attract a variety of wildlife.

Climate

The climate in the Makgadikgadi region is typically arid to semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is highly seasonal, occurring mainly between November and March. The dry season, from April to October, sees little to no rainfall, causing the pans to dry up and form a salty crust.

Flora and Fauna

Vegetation

The harsh conditions of the salt pans limit the types of vegetation that can survive. However, some hardy species, such as salt-tolerant grasses and shrubs, are found in the fringes and interdune areas. These plants play a crucial role in stabilizing the soil and providing habitat for various animal species.

Wildlife

Despite the seemingly inhospitable environment, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans support a diverse array of wildlife, especially during the wet season:

• Birds: The seasonal floods attract large flocks of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl. The pans are particularly famous for hosting one of the largest breeding populations of greater flamingos in the world.
• Mammals: Species such as springboks, zebras, and wildebeest migrate to the pans during the wet season to graze on the fresh grasses. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas follow these herbivores, taking advantage of the abundant prey.
• Other Species: Small mammals, reptiles, and insects also inhabit the area, adapted to the extreme conditions of the salt pans.

Human History and Culture

Early Inhabitants

Archaeological evidence indicates that the Makgadikgadi region was inhabited by early humans for thousands of years. Stone tools and artifacts found in the area suggest that prehistoric peoples utilized the resources of the ancient lake and its surrounding wetlands.

Modern Use

Today, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans are sparsely populated, with few permanent human settlements. The local communities, primarily of the Bakalanga and Basarwa (San) ethnic groups, engage in subsistence farming, cattle rearing, and traditional hunting and gathering practices.

Tourism

The unique landscape and rich biodiversity of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans attract tourists from around the world. Popular activities include:

• Safaris: Guided tours offer opportunities to see the diverse wildlife, especially during the migration season.
• Quad Biking: The flat, expansive terrain is ideal for quad biking adventures.
• Cultural Experiences: Visitors can engage with local communities to learn about their traditions and way of life.
• Star Gazing: The remote location and lack of light pollution make the pans an excellent spot for observing the night sky.

Conservation

Efforts to conserve the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans focus on preserving its unique ecosystem and protecting its wildlife. Initiatives include habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and promoting sustainable tourism. The area is also part of the larger Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, which provides legal protection to the region’s natural resources.

Events Around the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and the surrounding areas host several unique and vibrant events throughout the year. These events attract tourists and locals alike, offering opportunities to experience the culture, wildlife, and natural beauty of the region.

1. Makgadikgadi Epic

The Makgadikgadi Epic is an annual skydiving and adventure festival held in July or August at the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. Organized by the Botswana Tourism Organisation, this event brings together skydivers from around the world to participate in thrilling jumps over the salt flats. The festival also includes other adventure activities such as quad biking, paragliding, and scenic flights, making it a hub for adrenaline seekers.

2. Makgadikgadi Zebra Migration

While not a traditional event, the annual zebra migration is a natural spectacle that draws many visitors. This migration occurs between November and April, coinciding with the rainy season when the zebras move from the Boteti River region to the nutrient-rich grasslands of the Makgadikgadi Pans. This migration is one of the longest in Africa and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

3. Bird Watching Season

From November to April, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans transform into a haven for birdwatchers. This period marks the arrival of migratory birds, including large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl. Special bird watching tours and events are organized, particularly around Nata Bird Sanctuary and other key sites, allowing enthusiasts to observe and photograph the diverse avian population.

4. Mmakgodumo Cultural Festival

Held in the village of Mmatshumo, the Mmakgodumo Cultural Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the local Basarwa (San) and Bakalanga people. The festival features traditional music, dance, storytelling, and craft exhibitions. It provides an immersive cultural experience for visitors and fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous cultures.

5. Khumaga Cultural Festival

The Khumaga Cultural Festival takes place in the village of Xhumaga, typically in August or September. This festival showcases the traditions and customs of the local communities through performances, traditional games, and food fairs. It also includes educational workshops on the history and practices of the local ethnic groups.

Towns & Villages Close By

1. Nata

Located to the northeast of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Nata is a small town that serves as a major gateway for tourists heading to the pans. Nata is known for its bird sanctuary, which attracts many birdwatchers, especially during the wet season when flamingos and pelicans are abundant.

2. Gweta

Situated on the northern edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, Gweta is a popular stopover for travelers. It is known for its large baobab trees and serves as a base for excursions into the pans. The village offers various lodges and camping sites for tourists.

3. Sowa Town

Also known as Sua Pan, Sowa Town is located near the northeastern edge of the pans. It was established primarily for the soda ash mining industry, given the abundant mineral resources in the area. The town provides facilities and infrastructure supporting both the mining operations and tourism.

4. Rakops

Rakops lies to the west of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, along the Boteti River. It serves as a logistical point for tourists heading towards the pans or the nearby Central Kalahari Game Reserve. The village offers basic amenities and lodging options for travelers.

5. Mmatshumo

Located to the southwest of the salt pans, Mmatshumo is a small village that provides cultural experiences for visitors. It is one of the traditional settlements of the Basarwa (San) people, offering insight into their way of life and heritage.

6. Xhumaga

Xhumaga (also spelled Khumaga) is a village situated on the western side of the pans, along the Boteti River. It is close to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and is known for its scenic river views and wildlife sightings, especially elephants and zebras.

7. Mosu

Mosu is a village on the southern edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans. It is less frequented by tourists but offers a quieter, more remote experience of the pans. The village is a good spot for those interested in exploring the southern reaches of the salt flats.

8. Zoroga

Zoroga is a village located to the northwest of the pans. It is relatively small and remote, providing a more off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers seeking to explore the pans and the surrounding wilderness.

References

• “Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.” Botswana Tourism Organisation.
• Burrough, S. L., & Thomas, D. S. G. (2013). “The African Ecoregion: Ecological Complexity in a Continent of Change.” Nature Geoscience.
• “BirdLife Data Zone: Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) in Botswana.” BirdLife International.

• Total Population 2022: 1,346
• Chief: Kgosi Gasebalwe Seretse
• LatLong: ~ 24.63° S, 25.92° E
• Founded: 1965
• Founder: Tshekedi Khama
• Tribe(s): Bangwato, Batswapong
• Parliament Constituency: Sefhare-Ramokgoname
• Council Ward: Pilikwe-Maape-Mhalapitsa

Intro

Pilikwe is a village located in the Central District of Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa. It is one of the many rural settlements that contribute to the cultural and social tapestry of the nation. Known for its traditional lifestyle and community-based living, Pilikwe offers insights into the heritage and day-to-day life of Botswana outside the urban centers. It was founded by Kgosi Tshekedi Khama of Bangwato. The current chief of the village is Kgosi Gasebalwe Seretse. The village is also known by the native name ‘Rametsana’. It located 10 km east from the Martin’s Drift tswapong highway and 32 km north-eastern from Radisele. The village is bordered by a hill on its northside.

History

The village was founded by the formidable Kgosi Tshekedi Khama, together with his 43 leading headmen, including some of his royal uncles. This happened after Kgosi Tshekedi fell out with his nephew and heir-apparent, Seretse Khama over his marriage to a white woman, Ruth Williams. In September 1948, Seretse Khama, the niece of Tshekedi and the heir apparent to the Ngwato throne sent Tshekedi a letter that announced that he (Seretse) had married a British woman, Ruth Williams.

After a showdown at the Ngwato capital of Serowe in June 1949, he said Tshekedi and 43 Bangwato leaders signed a public declaration that they would be leaving the Ngwato territory to align themselves with the Bakwena. Tshekedi and hundreds of his followers left Serowe and settled in Ga Rametsana in Kweneng. After the reconciliation between Kgosi Tshekedi and Seretse, the former and his followers returned to Gammangwato and settled in the picturesque village of Pilikwe in 1952.

Location and Geography

Pilikwe is situated in the Central District, one of Botswana’s largest administrative divisions. The geography of the area is predominantly flat, characterized by savanna grasslands and small hills, which are typical of the Botswana landscape. The climate is semi-arid, marked by hot temperatures most of the year, with a rainy season from December to March.

Demographics

The population of Pilikwe is relatively small, typical of many rural villages in Botswana. The residents are primarily of the Tswana ethnic group, which is the largest ethnic group in the country. Setswana is the most commonly spoken language in the village.

Economy

The economy of Pilikwe, like many rural areas in Botswana, is primarily based on subsistence farming and small-scale agriculture. Cattle rearing is a significant part of the economy, reflecting the national importance of cattle in Botswana. Some residents engage in craft-making, such as basket weaving and pottery, which are sold to support family incomes.

Culture and Society

Cultural traditions play a vital role in the daily life of Pilikwe’s residents. The village operates under a traditional leadership structure, with a village chief (Kgosi) who oversees local governance and cultural affairs. Community events and traditional ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals, and cultural dances, are central to social life and are attended by most members of the community.

Education

Pilikwe has basic educational facilities, typically including a primary school where children receive their foundational education. For secondary education, students often travel to larger towns or other villages with better-equipped facilities.

Schools

• Pilikwe Primary School: Since

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Pilikwe are basic, with a local clinic providing primary health care. For more complex health issues, residents must travel to larger towns or cities where hospitals and specialized services are available.

Health Facilities

• Pilikwe Clinic: Since

Transportation

Transportation in and around Pilikwe is limited. Many residents rely on walking as their primary mode of transport, although bicycles and a few motor vehicles are present. Public transport, when available, typically comes in the form of minibuses or shared taxis that connect Pilikwe to nearby towns.

Challenges

Like many rural villages in Botswana and other parts of Africa, Pilikwe faces several challenges. These include limited access to advanced healthcare, inadequate educational facilities, and infrequent transportation services. Economic opportunities are also scarce, leading to high levels of poverty and unemployment.

Hotels/Lodges/B&B

None

Village Chiefs

• Kgosi Gasebalwe Seretse II: 2016 – Current
• Kgosi Bokopano Koodibetse: 1979 – 2015
• Kgosi Etshabile Sebusang: 1977 – 1979
• Kgosi Phekoyakgotla Molefi: 1970 – 1974
• Kgosi Gasebalwe Seretse I: 1964 – 1970
• Kgosi Kato Badirwang

Notable People

• Oris Radipotsane: Football Legend and Coach
• Oesi Thothe: Transformation Speaker
• Losika Moeng: Football Legend
• Seloma:

Political Representatives