Kolobeng: Livingstone's Botswana Mission
Discover Kolobeng, David Livingstone's third mission in Botswana, and explore the historical ruins of his church, school, and home.
Kolobeng, located near Mmankgodi, Botswana, marks the site of David Livingstone's third and final mission station, established in 1847. Livingstone, accompanied by his wife Mary and their children, aimed to convert the local Bakwena people to Christianity while also providing education and medical assistance. He also sought to introduce new agricultural methods. Livingstone's mission included a church, a school, and his family residence. He successfully converted Sechele I, the leader of the Bakwena, and taught the tribe irrigation techniques using the Kolobeng River. However, a severe drought starting in 1848 strained relations, as the Bakwena blamed Livingstone for the natural disaster. 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 remnants of the irrigation system. A fence was erected around the site in 1935, and it is now preserved by the Department of National Museum and Monuments. Kolobeng offers a serene environment to reflect on Livingstone's impact and the cultural exchanges that occurred here.
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler hours of the day, either early morning or late afternoon, for a more comfortable experience.
- Engage with local guides to enrich your understanding of Livingstone's mission and the local culture.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities on-site may be limited.
A brief summary to Kolobeng (Livingstone's Third Mission)
- 8MW8+65V, Mmankgodi, BW
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Gaborone, take a minibus from the main bus station towards Mmankgodi. The fare is approximately 15 BWP, and the journey takes about 30-45 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near the village center. From there, you can walk approximately 2 km to Kolobeng.
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Taxi
From Mmankgodi village center, hire a local taxi to take you directly to Kolobeng. The cost is about 20 BWP. Alternatively, a taxi from Gaborone to Mmankgodi costs approximately $95 - $120.
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Car
If driving from Gaborone, take the A1 highway north towards Mmankgodi. After approximately 25 km, take the exit towards Mmankgodi. Follow the signs to the historic site of Kolobeng, located about 2 km from the village center. Parking may be limited.
