Lobatse: The Heart of Botswana's Legal Heritage

• HelloDumela
  [du-meh-la]
• GoodbyeGabotse
  [ga-bo-tse]
• YesEe
  [ee]
• NoNnyaa
  [ny-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeLe kamoso
  [leh ka-mo-so]
• Thank youKe a leboga
  [keh ah le-bo-ga]
• Excuse me/SorryNtshwarele
  [ntsh-wa-re-le]
• How are you?Dumela, o kae?
  [du-meh-la, o ka-eh]
• Fine. And you?Ke gona. Le wena?
  [keh go-na. leh weh-na]
• Do you speak English?O bua sekgowa?
  [o bu-a se-ko-wa]
• I don't understandGa ke itse
  [ga kee it-se]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa go bona setlankane, le kamoso
  [keh ko-pa go bo-na se-tlan-ka-ne, leh ka-mo-so]
• I don't eat meatGa ke nyale nama
  [ga kee nya-le na-ma]
• Cheers!Phuthu!
  [poo-thoo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa go dira dipalo, le kamoso
  [keh ko-pa go dee-ra di-pa-lo, leh ka-mo-so]

• Help!Boipela!
  [boi-pe-la]
• Go away!Sala go lebelela!
  [sa-la go le-be-le-la]
• Call the Police!Itselela Kereke!
  [it-se-le-la ke-re-ke]
• Call a doctor!Itselela moruti!
  [it-se-le-la mo-ru-ti]
• I'm lostKe sa kgone go utlwa
  [keh sa kgo-ne go oot-lwa]
• I'm illKe tshwere
  [keh tshwe-re]

• I'd like to buy...Ke kopa go tlatsa...
  [keh ko-pa go tla-tsa...]
• I'm just lookingKe bokete
  [keh bo-ke-te]
• How much is it?E reng?
  [eh reng]
• That's too expensiveEna e mahala
  [eh-na e ma-ha-la]
• Can you lower the price?O ka nola mola?
  [o ka no-la mo-la]

• What time is it?Ke nako eng?
  [keh na-ko eng]
• It's one o'clockKe moepeng wa bobedi
  [keh mo-e-peng wa bo-be-di]
• Half past (10)Dikgweding tsa moresi
  [di-kwe-ding tsa mo-re-si]
• MorningBogwera
  [bo-gwe-ra]
• AfternoonMolelo
  [mo-le-lo]
• EveningNtswa
  [nts-wa]
• YesterdayNgoanafatsa
  [ngo-a-na-fat-sa]
• TodayNako ee
  [na-ko ee]
• TomorrowNako eng
  [na-ko eng]
• 1Moepeng wa nngwe
  [mo-e-peng wa nng-we]
• 2Moepeng wa bobedi
  [mo-e-peng wa bo-be-di]
• 3Moepeng wa boraro
  [mo-e-peng wa bo-ra-ro]
• 4Moepeng wa bone
  [mo-e-peng wa bo-ne]
• 5Moepeng wa botsadie
  [mo-e-peng wa bot-sa-die]
• 6Moepeng wa boraro
  [mo-e-peng wa bo-ra-ro]
• 7Moepeng wa boitshepo
  [mo-e-peng wa boi-tshe-po]
• 8Moepeng wa bongwe
  [mo-e-peng wa bong-we]
• 9Moepeng wa bobedi
  [mo-e-peng wa bo-be-di]
• 10Le bangwe
  [le bang-we]

• Where's a/the...?Kae...
  [kae...]
• What's the address?E e eng aterese?
  [eh eh eng a-te-re-se]
• Can you show me (on the map)?O ka nna lemelela (ka setlele)
  [o ka nna le-me-le-la (ka set-le-le)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nako eng e tla...
  [na-ko eng e tla...]
• A ticket (to ....)Lekete (go ....)
  [le-ke-te (go ....)]

The area around Lobatse has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of early human settlements and tools found in the surrounding hills and valleys. The indigenous San people, also known as Bushmen, were among the first inhabitants, living as hunter-gatherers and leaving behind a rich legacy of rock art and ancient artifacts.

Lobatse's modern history began in the late 19th century when the British colonial administration established a presence in the region. The town was officially founded in 1896 as a strategic location for the British to control the surrounding area and serve as a hub for the administration of the Bechuanaland Protectorate, which would later become Botswana.

One of the key developments in Lobatse’s history was the arrival of the railway in 1897. As part of the Cape to Cairo Railway project, the railway significantly boosted Lobatse’s importance as a commercial and transport hub. It facilitated the movement of goods and people, linking Lobatse to other parts of Botswana and neighboring South Africa.

In 1964, Lobatse was selected to be the judicial capital of Botswana. The High Court of Botswana was established in the town, making it a central location for the country's legal and judicial affairs. This development attracted legal professionals and contributed to the growth of the town.

The Botswana Meat Commission, established in 1965, played a pivotal role in Lobatse’s economic development. The BMC's abattoir in Lobatse became one of the largest meat processing facilities in Africa, providing jobs and stimulating the local economy. The BMC also helped Botswana become a major exporter of beef to Europe and other parts of the world.

When Botswana gained independence in 1966, Lobatse continued to grow as an important administrative and economic center. The post-independence era saw the establishment of various educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and infrastructural developments. The town also became a focal point for agricultural and industrial activities, further solidifying its role in Botswana’s development.

Lobatse is rich in cultural heritage, with various traditions and festivals celebrated by its diverse population. The town hosts events such as the annual Lobatse International Beef Festival, which celebrates the town’s beef industry and features music, dance, and culinary showcases. The local crafts, traditional music, and dance performances offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the region.

Surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys, Lobatse offers several natural attractions for visitors. The nearby Otse Hill, the highest point in Botswana, provides stunning views and hiking opportunities. The Manyelanong Game Reserve, home to rare species like the Cape Vulture, is another must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts.

Lobatse is located in the southeastern part of Botswana, approximately 70 kilometers from the capital city, Gaborone. The easiest way to reach Lobatse is by road. If you're flying in from outside Botswana, you will likely arrive at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi for the hour-long drive to Lobatse. There are also bus services operating between Gaborone and Lobatse, which provide an affordable option for travelers.

Lobatse is a relatively small town, and its attractions are mostly accessible on foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. It is advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. There are also minibus services, known locally as 'combis,' that connect different parts of the town and nearby areas. Renting a car can offer more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside.

The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Lobatse, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are available in the town, so withdrawing cash should not be an issue. However, it's a good idea to have some Pula on hand before arriving in Lobatse.

Lobatse is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Lobatse does not have many high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergencies, dial 999 for police assistance and 997 for medical emergencies. Lobatse has a local police station and a hospital that can handle most emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available in the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always seek permission before taking photographs in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Lobatse like a local, visit the local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and traditional Botswana crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share their culture and history. Don't miss the chance to explore the natural beauty around Lobatse, including the Lobatse Mountain Range and nearby nature reserves. For a unique experience, visit the Lobatse Sports Complex to catch a local football match.