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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 church, school, and home.

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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. The site offers a glimpse into 19th-century missionary life and the early interactions between Europeans and Africans in this region.

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

  • 8MW8+65V, Mmankgodi, BW
  • 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 cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, for a more comfortable experience.
  • Engage with local guides to gain deeper insights into the site's historical and cultural significance.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities on-site may be limited.
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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 approximately 15 BWP. 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 20 BWP.

  • Car

    If driving from Gaborone, take the A1 highway north towards Mmankgodi. After about 25 km, exit towards Mmankgodi. Follow the signs to the Kolobeng historic site, approximately 2 km from the village center. Parking may be limited. A taxi from Gaborone to Mmankgodi costs approximately $95 - $120.

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Discover more about Kolobeng (Livingstone's Third Mission)

Kolobeng, near Mmankgodi, Botswana, marks the location 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 irrigation methods, utilizing the nearby Kolobeng River to combat drought. The mission comprised a church, a school, and the Livingstone family's home. Livingstone's efforts saw the conversion of Sechele I, the leader of the Bakwena people. However, the mission faced challenges, including a severe drought in 1848 that strained relations with the Bakwena, who blamed Livingstone for the natural disaster. In 1852, Boer farmers attacked the settlement during the Battle of Dimawe, leading to its abandonment. Today, visitors can explore the preserved remnants of the mission, including building foundations and the grave of Livingstone's infant daughter, Elizabeth. Informative plaques offer historical context. Kolobeng provides a serene setting for reflection on Livingstone's impact and the complex cultural exchanges of the time.

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