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The Three Dikgosi Monument: A Symbol of Botswana's Independence

Honoring Botswana's founding fathers: a landmark monument in Gaborone's CBD commemorating the three chiefs who secured the nation's independence.

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The Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone commemorates Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I, three chiefs who secured Botswana's protection from Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company in 1895, paving the way for its independence. The monument features bronze statues of the three chiefs and is a significant landmark in Botswana's capital.

A brief summary to The Three Dikgosi Monument

  • 9W44+2XJ, 4th Commercial, Gaborone, Central Business District, BW
  • +2673689000
  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Allocate at least an hour to explore the monument and its detailed relief panels.
  • Engage with local guides to gain deeper insights into the historical context.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Three Dikgosi Monument is located in Gaborone's Central Business District, making it easily accessible on foot. From anywhere in the CBD, head towards 4th Commercial Road. The monument is visible from a distance. Walking is a great way to explore the local shops and cafes along the way. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Three Dikgosi Monument via public transport, find a local bus that services routes to Gaborone. Once on the bus, inform the driver you are heading to the Central Business District. Disembark at the nearest stop to 4th Commercial. From there, it is a short walk to the monument. Bus fares typically range from BWP 5 to BWP 15, depending on your starting point.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Gaborone. You can hail a taxi or arrange for one through your hotel. Ask the driver to take you to the Three Dikgosi Monument in the Central Business District on 4th Commercial Road. A short taxi ride within the CBD should cost approximately BWP 35-45.

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Discover more about The Three Dikgosi Monument

Located in the heart of Gaborone's Central Business District, the Three Dikgosi Monument stands as a powerful symbol of Botswana's journey to independence. Unveiled on September 29, 2005, the monument honors three influential tribal chiefs: Khama III of the Bangwato, Sebele I of the Bakwena, and Bathoen I of the Bangwaketse. These leaders played a pivotal role in Botswana's history by petitioning the British government to prevent the incorporation of Bechuanaland into Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company. In 1895, facing the threat of exploitation, the three chiefs bravely traveled to Great Britain to ask Queen Victoria and Joseph Chamberlain, the Secretary of State for the Colonies, to place Bechuanaland under direct British rule. Their successful appeal ensured Botswana remained a British protectorate, setting the stage for its eventual independence in 1966. The monument features impressive 5.4-meter bronze statues of the three chiefs in traditional attire, symbolizing their cultural heritage and leadership. Six surrounding plinths narrate key events in Botswana's history, from the Mfecane period to independence, while twelve bronze relief panels depict traditional ceremonies and interactions with European settlers. The monument's construction by North Korea's Mansudae Overseas Projects sparked controversy, but it remains a popular destination offering insight into Botswana's rich heritage.

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