What is the cultural importance of Gaborone in Botswana’s heritage?
The Botswanan capital of Gaborone, named after Chief Gaborone, who was instrumental in leading his tribe from Magaliesburg around the year 1880, has evolved from a simple administrative village to a progressive city. Home to unique traditions, beliefs and places of interest, Gaborone is an excellent destination to get a feel of what Botswana represents.
Local cuisine is diverse as opposed to being extravagant
Meals in Gaborone are extremely tasty with what the locals fondly call ‘bogobe’, which is sorghum porridge forming the core of most servings. Bogobe is often accompanied with mutton or beef and can be savoured, either at any of the city’s restaurants or roadside stands. Aside from bogobe, visitors will be well positioned to indulge their foodie senses in a cross section of Gaborone’s most sought-after varieties of food, such as for example, impala steaks, barbecued meats and guinea-fowl stew.
Craft markets capture the essence of local craftsmanship
Showcasing the skills and work of various artisans, the city’s craft markets have left an indelible mark in not just Gaborone’s but also in Botswana’s history. Affording access to a lengthy list of handcrafted wonders, including detailed beadwork and carefully woven baskets, these markets continue to play a crucial role in projecting Gaborone’s identity to all those eager to learn of its storied past.
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The Three Dikgosi Monument highlights a nation’s transition
Not only does the Three Dikgosi Monument successfully celebrate the tireless efforts and resilience of Botswana’s founding leaders but this heritage site pays tribute to a country’s indigenous history. Sculpted by artisans of North Korean origin on the occasion of Botswana’s 39th independence day celebrations in 2005, the Three Dikgosi Monument recalls an important turning point that altered the trajectory of the nation and its citizenry. Employing the services of a guided tour will further reveal details of how the founders petitioned Queen Victoria, which led to the creation of the Bechuanaland Protectorate that would later become the Republic of Botswana on the 30th of September, 1966.
Wildlife can be spotted within city limits
Established by the Kalahari Conservation Society in 1988, the 5 sq km Gaborone Game Reserve has made Botswana’s capital all the more approachable and enjoyable. Known as the 3rd busiest wildlife reserve in the whole country, Gaborone Game Reserve is where a number of species call home. These include wildebeest, warthogs, ostriches, gemsboks, elands and kudus. Found 1 km east of the popular Broadhurst Mall, the said reserve is also a good destination for birdwatchers to spot hornbills and kingfishers respectively.
The Maitisong Festival is all about live entertainment and having a good time
Should you be thinking of a reason to book your stay at a resort in Botswana during the month of April, such as for example, Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, then you will be able to grace the enthralling Maitisong Festival. As Botswana’s most talked-about arts festival, this week-long celebration features the very best in local performers, be it established names or up-and-coming talent. Notable performances cover comedy, drama, dance and live musical acts for one truly insightful and unforgettable experience.
Embark on a history and cultural journey at Botswana National Museum
As a multi-faceted facility that was incorporated by an Act of Parliament in 1967 and thereafter, opened to members of the general public a year later, the influential Botswana National Museum is where one can encounter Botswana’s traditional side. Housing the National Botanical Garden, Octagon Gallery and National Art Gallery, this immersive and resourceful heritage centre portrays a host of artefacts, paintings and crafts to feast your eyes on. While promoting local talent, this tourist attraction stands proudly as a beacon of Botswana’s diverse heritage and cultural evolution.
