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Kolobeng Mission: Livingstone's Botswana Outpost

Discover Kolobeng Mission, David Livingstone's third mission in Botswana, and explore its historical and cultural significance.

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Explore the remnants of Kolobeng Mission, David Livingstone's third and final mission station in Botswana, established in 1847. See the foundations of his home, church, and irrigation system, and learn about his interactions with the Bakwena people.

A brief summary to Kolobeng (Livingstone's Third Mission)

  • 8MW8+65V, Mmankgodi, BW

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better engagement with local guides.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful surroundings and historical remnants.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Consider reading up on David Livingstone's life before your visit to enhance your experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Gaborone, take the A1 highway towards Molepolole. After approximately 25 km, follow signs to Mmankgodi. The site is located near the village center at coordinates 8MW8+65V. Parking may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    Take a minibus from the Gaborone bus station heading to Mmankgodi. The fare is around 15 BWP. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near the village center. From there, you can either walk (approximately 2 km) or hire a local taxi to take you directly to Kolobeng at a cost of about 20 BWP.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Gaborone to Mmankgodi will cost approximately $95 - $120 and take around 38 minutes.

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Discover more about Kolobeng (Livingstone's Third Mission)

Kolobeng Mission, also known as the Livingstone Memorial, marks the site of David Livingstone's third and final mission station, established in 1847. Located near Mmankgodi, approximately 25 kilometers west of Gaborone, Botswana, it offers a glimpse into the life and work of the famous Scottish missionary and explorer. Livingstone, accompanied by his wife Mary and their children, aimed to convert the local Bakwena people to Christianity, provide education and medical assistance, and improve their living conditions. He also sought to establish trade routes to combat the slave trade. At Kolobeng, Livingstone converted Sechele I, the chief of the Bakwena, and taught the community irrigation techniques using the Kolobeng River. However, the mission faced challenges, including a severe drought in 1848, which strained relations between Livingstone and the Bakwena. In 1852, Boer farmers attacked the settlement during the Battle of Dimawe, leading to the mission's abandonment. Today, visitors can explore the remaining foundations of the church, Livingstone's house, and the irrigation system. A modest grave marks the resting place of Livingstone's infant daughter, Elizabeth. The site is preserved by the Department of National Museum and Monuments under Botswana's Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism.

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