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Kolobeng: Livingstone's Botswana Mission

Discover Kolobeng, David Livingstone's third mission in Botswana, and explore the historical ruins of his 19th-century missionary work.

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Explore Kolobeng, the site of David Livingstone's third and final mission in Botswana, established in 1847. See the remnants of his church, school, and home, and learn about his efforts to convert and assist the local 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 more personal guided tours.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and historical architecture.
  • Engage with local guides to enrich your understanding of Livingstone's impact.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Kolobeng by public transport, take a minibus from the Gaborone bus station heading to Mmankgodi. The fare is around 15-30 BWP, and the journey takes about 30-45 minutes. Once in Mmankgodi, you can walk (approximately 2 km) or hire a local taxi to take you to Kolobeng for about 10-20 BWP.

  • 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 historical site of Kolobeng, about 2 km from the village center. Parking may be limited.

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Discover more about Kolobeng (Livingstone's Third Mission)

Kolobeng Mission, also known as Livingstone's Third Mission, offers a glimpse into the life and work of the famous Scottish missionary and explorer, David Livingstone. Established in 1847 near the Kolobeng River, this mission served as Livingstone's home, church, and school, where he lived with his wife Mary and their children. Livingstone aimed to convert the local Bakwena people to Christianity and introduce them to new agricultural techniques, including irrigation. He successfully converted Sechele I, the leader of the Bakwena, and taught them how to irrigate their crops using the Kolobeng River. However, the mission faced challenges, including a severe drought in 1848 that 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 remnants of the original structures, including the foundations of the church and Livingstone's house. A fence was installed around the site in 1935, and the mission is now preserved by the Department of National Museum and Monuments under Botswana's Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism.

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