Overview:

The Kasane Airport Monument in Botswana is a commemorative stone, built to celebrate the official opening of Kasane International Airport in June 2014. It is situated in front of the main entrance to the airport terminal building and features a number of inscriptions detailing the opening of the airport and the importance of aviation in the country. The granite monument was constructed by a local company and was designed to resemble an airplane in flight, while also having several cracks running down its surface, like a lightening strike, to represent the power and connectivity of air travel. It also serves as a reminder to all who encounter it, of the importance of air travel to the socio-economic development of Botswana. The Airport Monument is a symbol of the increasing access to air services that are being created in the country and symbolizes the commitment of the Government of Botswana to further grow the aviation industry. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

The Kasane Airport Monument in Kasane, Botswana is a prominent feature of the airport area. The monument was erected in 2006 to commemorate the history of the region and the aviation industry. It was designed by Botswanan sculptor John Hopley and measures 11.4 meters tall. The structure is made of stainless steel and has a series of planes taking off from a central column, which stretches upwards from the ground. The structure also includes a sundial in the centre. The monument is a symbol of the commitment of Africa to the development and growth of air transport in the region. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Kasane Airport Monument is located in Botswana and was built in 1964 as a tribute to the first passenger jetliner, a Boeing 707, that flew into Kasane Airport in 1963. The monument is believed to have been built in the same year. It is a white structure built of reinforced concrete with four wings that resemble the wings of an aircraft. The monument has the text “Kasane International Airport” at the top and a bronze plaque at the bottom that reads “1964 International Air Service Initiated”. In the 1980s, the Botswana Government had plans to demolish the monument, as it was viewed as a reminder of the past when Botswana's international airport was still a regional service. However, due to its importance to the local community, the monument was preserved and became a local attraction. In 2014, the monument was refurbished and repaired as part of a wider restoration project that aimed to revitalize important landmarks in the community. It was painted in the traditional colors of Botswana's national airline, Air Botswana, and was officially re-opened on the 24th of October 2014. The opening ceremony marked the successful completion of the project and the beginning of a new era for Kasane Airport, where visitors from around the world can come and see this historic structure. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Kasane Airport Monument is a giant sculpture of a Baobab tree, designed by the War memorial artist Jody Paulse from Zimbabwe, and erected in Kasane Airport, Botswana, in 2016. 2. The inspiration for the design was the famous baobab tree in the Chobe National Park, which is a source of life for many species and a symbol of Botswana culture. 3. The monument is made of stainless steel, was donated by the Swiss Government, and is 36 metres high, with a root depth of 17 metres. 4. It is the largest sculpture in Africa and stands as a symbol of unity for Botswana and other visitors, and as a reminder of the importance of nature and conservation. 5. The sculpture reflects the sunset every evening, with its stainless steel reflecting the sun’s rays and creating a beautiful silhouette at the airport. 6. The monument was designed to bring awareness to the importance of protecting forests and the natural environment, which is an essential part of Botswana’s culture and identity. 7. The sculpture symbolizes the Tree of Life in Africa and reflects the spirit of the people and their culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.