Overview:

Nata Monument in Botswana is one of five religious monuments that honor the living chiefs of Botswana's eight major tribes. It is located in the Nata village in the northeastern corner of the country, close to both the north-eastern border with Namibia and southern border with Zimbabwe. The monument consists of a bronze statue representing the unity of the eight tribes; along with the little-used Nata language, this is also known as the “8 In 1 Monument”. The monument was created by the Late Chief Gaseitsiwe who wanted to create unity and understanding between all Botswana tribes, and encourage cooperation and mutual respect. The monument symbolizes the spirit of nationalism, and the pride for Botswana’s diversity and strong sense of nationhood. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

1. Built between 1895 and 1896 by Lobengula: The Nata Monument is located at the site of an ancient town in Nata, Botswana that was founded by King Lobengula, the last ruling monarch of the Ndebele kingdom in the late 1890s. The monument was built between 1895 and 1896 as a memorial to King Lobengula and his people. 2. Historical importance: The Nata Monument is widely considered to be Botswana's most important historical site. It is historically significant as a reminder of the struggles of the Ndebele people against colonialism in the 19th century. The site also marks the beginning of Botswana's independence from the British in 1966. 3. Design and structure: The Nata Monument is a single, large granite column with four faces. The faces are decorated with carvings depicting stories, rituals, and important figures in the Ndebele kingdom. The column is topped by an intricate plinth made of glazed tiles. 4. Encircling area: The Nata Monument is encircled by an impressive white picket fence and seven flagpoles, each bearing the national flag of Botswana. There is also a bronze plaque on the west side of the monument, which lists the names of those who perished during the Battle of Sultana. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Nata Monument is a memorial located in Nata, Botswana, and was erected in order to commemorate people who perished in the Nata Sanctuary bombings in 1966. The monument is made of blocks of granite and commemorates the tragic loss of many lives due to the bombings. The memorial stands as a reminder of the dangers of political violence and of the importance of preserving human life. It was erected in 1985 to replace the original monument which was destroyed by high winds in 1982. The Nata Sanctuary bombings occurred in April 1966 when the South African Air Force bombed Sanctuary, a village close to Nata, three times. This was part of Operation Celeste, a joint effort to disrupt the Ndebele guerrilla movement in Botswana. At least 11 people were killed and many more were injured. The incident sparked international outrage and condemnation, and led to the closure of the Ndebele guerilla base in Nata. The Nata Monument was inaugurated by Dr. Leabua Jonathan, first Prime Minister of Lesotho, on August the 23rd, 1985, and serves as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the Sanctuary bombings. The monument includes several inscriptions in both English and Setswana, including the words: “Life is more precious than gold, let us keep it so”. The Nata Monument stands as a reminder of human life lost due to political violence, and an enduring symbol of peace and unification. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Nata Monument in Botswana is one of the highest free standing structures in the country, standing 20 meters tall. 2. The monument was commissioned by the Botswana government in 2002 to commemorate the achievements and legacy of the local Nata people. 3. The entire monument is made from sandstone blocks that were quarried in the nearby area. 4. On the top of the monument is a bronze eagle with its wings spread. This symbolizes the strength and courage of the Nata people. 5. In 2006, the monument was declared a national heritage site. 6. The Nata Monument is also known as Nata Fort and is located in the village of Nata. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.