Gaborone history

Gaborone is one of Africa's youngest and fastest-growing capitals. Its history is closely tied to Botswana gaining independence and the nation's aspiration to create a new administrative centre from scratch.

Foundation and Establishment of the Capital

Unlike many ancient cities, modern Gaborone was purposefully designed and built in the mid-1960s. Prior to this, the administrative centre of the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland was the city of Mafeking (now Mahikeng), which, paradoxically, was located outside the protectorate—within South Africa. In anticipation of independence, the decision was made to build a new capital within the country. Construction began in 1964, and the main urban framework was erected in just three years. On 30 September 1966, Botswana's Independence Day, Gaborone officially became the capital. The city was named in honour of a 19th-century tribal leader, Kgosi Gaborone Matlapin.

Key Selection Factors

The choice of location for the future capital was dictated by several strategic considerations:

• Political Necessity: Establishing an administrative centre within its own territory was a symbol of sovereignty and statehood for the new independent nation.
• Access to Resources: The site was chosen due to its proximity to a fresh water source—the Notwane River—as well as the existing railway line connecting it to other regions.
• Neutral Position: The location was relatively central and was not associated with the dominance of any single major tribe, which promoted national unity.

Early Development

The city was planned according to the "Garden City" concept, featuring wide boulevards and open spaces. The initial plan catered for 20,000 residents, but the city grew much faster. Within three years, key infrastructure facilities were erected: government buildings, a power station, a hospital, schools, a post office, and over a thousand residential houses. The economy at this early stage was entirely focused on the functions of an administrative centre. Rapid growth and the influx of workers also led to the emergence of the first informal settlements, reflecting swift urbanization. Today, Gaborone continues to be one of the most dynamically developing cities in Africa.

Timeline of Gaborone's History

Despite its youth, Gaborone possesses a rich history that reflects the development path of the entire country. From a small settlement to a dynamic capital, here are the key milestones of this journey.

• ~1890: The Batlokwa chief named Gaborone Matlapin founds a settlement in this area.
• 1964: Massive construction begins on the new city destined to become the capital.
• 1965: The administrative centre of the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland is moved from Mafeking to Gaborone.
• 30 September 1966: Botswana gains independence, and Gaborone is officially proclaimed its capital.
• 1968: The National Museum and Art Gallery opens, becoming the centre of the city's cultural life.
• 1969: The city's name is officially changed from "Gaberones" to the modern "Gaborone".
• 1982: The University of Botswana is founded, which today stands as the country's leading higher education institution.
• 1986: Gaborone receives official city status.
• 1992: The headquarters of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is established in Gaborone, strengthening its status as an important regional hub.
• 1994: Unrest occurs in the city, caused by high unemployment and social issues against the backdrop of rapid population growth.

Key Milestones in Gaborone's Development

Since its founding in the mid-1960s, Gaborone has journeyed from a small administrative settlement to a thriving economic and cultural hub. The city's development reflects the success story of Botswana as a whole.

• Planned Capital Construction (1964–1966): In anticipation of independence, the decision was made to build a new capital from scratch. The city was designed on "Garden City" principles and erected in record time—just three years. This phase laid the foundation for future growth, creating essential infrastructure: government buildings, a hospital, schools, and residential districts.
• Formation of a Cultural and Educational Core (1968–1982): The opening of the National Museum and Art Gallery in 1968 was a significant step in cultural development. A pivotal event was the founding of the University of Botswana in 1982, which transformed Gaborone into the country's main educational and scientific centre.
• Economic Boom Driven by the Diamond Industry (1980s–1990s): Although diamond mining took place in other regions, Gaborone became the financial and managerial hub of this industry. The headquarters of major companies were established in the city, including the famous "Orapa House", where diamonds are sorted and valued. The influx of capital triggered rapid growth in construction and the service sector.
• Regional Hub Status (1992): Hosting the headquarters of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in Gaborone strengthened its international significance. This turned the city into an important platform for regional diplomacy and economic cooperation.
• Rapid Urbanization and Growth (1990s–2000s): The city's population grew much faster than initially anticipated, leading to the active expansion of residential areas and the appearance of large shopping malls. This explosive growth also highlighted social challenges, including unemployment, which led to unrest in 1994.
• Modernization and the Creation of a New Business Centre (from 2000s): The 21st century marked a new era of urban planning with the development of the new Central Business District (CBD). Modern high-rise buildings, offices, hotels, and the new High Court were erected here, definitively shaping Gaborone's image as a modern African capital.

The architectural appearance of Gaborone is a visual history of its rapid development from a planned capital to a dynamic African metropolis. There are no ancient ruins or medieval structures here; instead, one can trace the evolution of urban planning thought from the second half of the 20th century to the early 21st century.

The Founding Era: Functionalism and the "Garden City" (1960s–1970s)

Gaborone was founded in 1964 and was initially built according to the "Garden City" concept. This principle implied large open spaces, wide streets, and low-rise developments, which remain visible in the older districts today. The initial layout resembled a "brandy glass": the government quarter was located at the base, with the main commercial avenue—the Main Mall—extending from it. The architectural style of this period is early modernism and functionalism. Buildings such as the National Assembly Building and the first government institutions feature strict geometric forms, minimal decoration, and an emphasis on practicality, which was characteristic of post-war architecture worldwide.

Growth and the Search for Identity (1980s–1990s)

Rapid economic growth, driven by the diamond industry, led to the city's swift expansion. During this period, attempts to combine international style with local traditions began to appear in the architecture. Some buildings started incorporating elements inspired by Tswana culture—for example, pitched roofs resembling traditional rondavel huts, or the use of ochre and earthen tones in finishing. A striking example of corporate architecture from this time is Orapa House—the building where Botswana's famous diamonds are sorted.

The Modern Era: Glass and Concrete of the New CBD (from 2000s)

The beginning of the 21st century was marked by the construction of the new Central Business District (CBD), which radically changed the urban landscape. This district has become the showcase of modern Botswana. Postmodernism and contemporary international style dominate here: high-rise buildings made of glass and concrete, futuristic forms, and advanced engineering solutions. Landmark structures of this era include:

• iTowers — the tallest buildings in Botswana, becoming a symbol of the new Gaborone.
• The High Court Building — a monumental structure with a modern design.
• Numerous office centres and bank headquarters, forming the capital's new business skyline.

Thus, the architectural development of Gaborone reflects its journey: from a modest administrative centre planned from scratch to a thriving capital where the functional buildings of the 1960s coexist with ambitious skyscrapers of the 21st century.

Notable People Associated with Gaborone

The history of Gaborone, though brief, is closely intertwined with the lives of people who built not only the city but the entire nation. From chiefs and presidents to cultural and sports figures, here are several key figures who have left their mark on the life of the capital.

• Kgosi Gaborone Matlapin — A historical figure and chief of the Batlokwa tribe in the 19th century. Although the modern city was built much later, it was named in his honour, forever linking him to this place.
• Sir Seretse Khama — The first president of independent Botswana and a key figure in the founding of Gaborone as the capital. He oversaw the relocation of the administrative centre from outside the country and laid the foundations for the city's development as a symbol of the new sovereign state. His final resting place is in Gaborone.
• Sir Quett Masire — The second president of Botswana and a colleague of Seretse Khama. During his tenure, Gaborone experienced rapid economic growth and urbanization, transforming from a small administrative centre into a dynamically developing city.
• Unity Dow — A distinguished lawyer, judge, writer, and human rights activist. She became the first female judge of the High Court of Botswana and actively fought for women's rights. Unity Dow is also a co-founder of a school in Gaborone and the author of several novels addressing social issues in the country.
• Mpule Kwelagobe — A Gaborone-born model and public figure. In 1999, she became the first representative of Botswana to win the title of "Miss Universe". Following her victory, she used her fame to draw attention to HIV/AIDS issues and advocate for women's rights, becoming a UN Goodwill Ambassador.
• Nijel Amos — A renowned athlete specializing in the 800 metres. He made history as the first athlete from Botswana to win an Olympic medal (silver at the 2012 London Games). His success made him a national hero and a symbol of the country's sporting achievements, centred in Gaborone.
• Alexander McCall Smith — A Scottish author who made Gaborone world-famous through his book series "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency". The novels are set on the streets of Botswana's capital, introducing millions of readers around the world to its atmosphere. The writer also participated in establishing the Law Department at the University of Botswana.