Overview:

: The Botswana Defence Force Monument in Gaborone, Botswana is a public monument and memorial dedicated to honouring members of the Botswana Defence Force who have given their lives in service of their country. The monument includes a large wall engraved with hundreds of name plates and a large granite stele at its centre. The wall contains a list of all personnel who gave their lives in service from 1976 to the present day. The stele, designed by South African sculptor Senzo Shabangu, depicts a soldier in silhouette, his arms outstretched in a gesture of both veneration and protection. The monument is located in the city centre and is open to the public. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

, the Botswana Defence Force Monument is an important monument located in Gaborone, the capital of the nation. It was built in 1992 to commemorate the heroes of the Botswana Defence Force who fought for the country’s independence in 1966. The monument is an imposing sculpture that stands as a reminder of the country’s determination to defend its territorial integrity and remain unified. It is a symbol of Botswana’s commitment to peace, freedom and respect for human rights. The Botswana Defence Force Monument is one of the most recognizable monuments in the city of Gaborone and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Botswana Defence Force Monument is located in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, and pays tribute to the Botswana Defence Force's (BDF) service to their country. The monument was designed by John Meintjies, a South African artist, and was completed in 1998 to mark the 25th anniversary of the BDF. It is situated in front of the BDF headquarters on Molapo P Schreiber Street. The monument is made up of four distinct parts that represent different facets of the BDF’s mission. The first part is a large bronze sculpture of a soldier in full gear. This symbolizes the strength and bravery of the BDF and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that members have made while serving in the military. The second part is a flagpole that holds the flags of both Botswana and the BDF. This is to signify the nation's appreciation for the service and loyalty of the soldiers. The third element of the monument is a plaque which commemorates the 25th anniversary of the BDF and a dedication to those who have served. The fourth part of the monument is a wall that consists of two columns of ceramic tiles depicting images that portray the history of the BDF. These images include the initial founding of the BDF in 1974, maps of peacetime deployment operations, and photographs of honoured members of the BDF. This monument serves as a reminder of the significance of the Botswana Defence Force in the history of Botswana and its commitment to the nation's security and peace. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Botswana Defence Force Monument (BDF) located in Gaborone is a massive stone and bronze war memorial to those who served with the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) in defending the country. 2. The BDF monument was erected in 1984 in the capital city of Gaborone in commemoration of the contribution of the BDF forces to the achievement of peace and security in Botswana. 3. The monument is a popular tourist destination in Gaborone and is visited both by the local people as well as tourists from other countries. 4. The monument is made up of three main elements:- A bronze bell tower on the top of a raised concrete platform, a stone block and a massive seated bronze statue of a BDF soldier in combat gear. 5. The monument was designed by local sculptor Kabelano Disele and is about 10 metres tall. 6. On the base of the monument are inscribed the words, “We Have Lived and Served Through the Storm” symbolic of the ties between the BDF and the people of Botswana. 7. The monument has been the centre of much political as well as social debate in Botswana, with some people proposing its removal due to its connection to a BDF regime. 8. Despite the controversy, the monument remains one of the most important symbols of Botswana’s national identity. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.