Overview:

Kopong Monument is a natural monument located within the Ngamiland District, Botswana. It is situated just outside of the small village of Kopong, near the Okavango Delta. The monument is a combination of three separate natural features, which are the Kopong Pillar, the Kopong Caves, and the Kopong Trail. All of these features have been designated as national monuments, and are recognized for their natural beauty and historical significance. The Kopong Pillar is a towering vertical rock formation that stands 40 meters (130 feet) tall. It is said to be an ancient geological feature that was left behind when the Okavango Delta was formed. The Pillar offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, and is an iconic symbol of the area. The Kopong Caves are located a few miles from the Pillar. The caves contain over 100 passages and tunnels, and are believed to have been carved by an ancient river flowing through the area. The caves are of great archaeological interest, as they may have been used as a shelter by ancient humans, and some artifacts have been found inside the caves. Finally, the Kopong Trail is a walking trail that runs along the Okavango Delta for around 8 kilometers (5 miles). The Trail passes through a variety of landscapes, from forests to open plains, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. It is a great way to experience the local natural environment in detail. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

- The Kopong Monument, located in the Kopong Village east of Maun in Botswana, is the national monument of Botswana. - It contains a large sculpture of three human figures, standing together in an ‘S’ shape, representing the intertwined destinies of the Tswana, the Nama and the Herero. - It was commissioned by the late Sir Seretse Khama to honour the ancestors who fought and died for Botswana’s freedom from colonization. - The monument was inaugurated by the then-President, Ketumile Masire, on the 30th anniversary of Botswana's independence. - It is also a site of pilgrimage for the Tswana people, as it is the burial place of Kgosi Sechele I (the Lion King) whose name stands for liberation and resistance against colonialism. - Surrounding the monument is a peaceful park with a lake, benches and birds, offering visitors a place filled with peace and serenity. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Kopong Monument is located in the eastern region of Botswana. The monument was erected in 1948 to commemorate the first meeting between the British South African Police (BSAP) and the Bangwato people which had a positive outcome and mutual acceptance of the border between Botswana and Transvaal. The Bangwato people had come to meet the BSAP on the 11th of June 1920. The Batswana people and British government made a commitment to help each other. This said they would work together in mutual coexistence and respect for their respective territories. This marked the beginning of a long period of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The story of the Kopong Monument is important to the Motswana people as it is a reminder of the positive agreement and friendship between the British and the local people. The monument is carved from sandstone and stands 5 metres tall as a symbol of courage, mutual understanding and peace. The British Union Flag is positioned on one side, and the Botswana national flag is on the other. The Kopong Monument remains a symbol of this strong relationship formed between the two countries. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Kopong Monument is a granite monument located in the village of Kopong in the Central District of Botswana. 2. It consists of a single granite stone which has been inscribed with the words “Kopong Monument” and the date of its dedication on July 8, 1981. 3. The Kopong Monument is dedicated to Long Tshesebe, the paramount leader of the Bangwaketse people. 4. It is believed that the stone was transported from Tshesebe’s grave, and stands as a reminder of the long journey and legacy of the Bangwaketse people. 5. The Kopong Monument is a symbol of unity for the Bangwaketse people, and is a reminder of their identity and history. 6. It is the only monument of traditional style in Botswana that has been preserved in its original form. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.