Overview:

is a national monument built by the government of Botswana to honor the legacy of the three kings, Kgosi Khama III, Kgosi Sekgoma I, and Kgosi Bathoen I. These three chiefs were powerful dikgosi (chiefs) who played an integral role in protecting Botswana from colonial rule in the 19th century. The monument is located in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. The monument is made of copper and bronze and stands at over 16 feet tall. It provides an outstanding visual representation of the dikgosi and their lasting influence on Botswana’s past and present. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

1. Expression of national pride: The Three Dikgosi Monument is a symbol of national pride in Botswana, as the three karanga kings (Chief Tawana, Chief Sechele and Chief Khama) represented by the monument, played an important role in Botswana's history and independence. 2. Bronze statues: The monument is made up of three 10-meter high bronze statues of the three dikgosi (traditional tribal leaders). 3. Historic location: The monument is located in the heart of the capital city, Gaborone, situated near the government offices. The location is symbolic for the fact that this is where these chiefs once gathered to make decisions about the country. 4. Cultural significance: The monument is an important example of the various ethnic groups that once lived together in Botswana. It serves as a reminder of the rich traditional culture and the importance of the tribal chiefs. 5. Visitor centre: There is a visitor centre at the site which offers information on the history and significance of the monument. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Three Dikgosi Monument is a landmark in Gaborone, Botswana. The monument was constructed in 1998 to commemorate three of Botswana’s legendary tribal chiefs: Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I. The monument is a granite construction showing them together as the three wise men, facing east. The idea of the monument was originally conceived in 1995 when Botswana celebrated 30 years of independence and the three chiefs were recognized for their leadership and contributions to the nation. The statue was designed by Ian Easterbrook and fabricated by his company, Memorials of Distinction, out of full dimensions of Italian Statuario marble. The granite sculpture sits on a large base of local Oshabites sandstone and five granite steles depicting each chief’s “frivolities, visions and achievements”. According to Easterbrook, the sculpture has three major pillars of influence; centered around “ubuntu” or “ humaneness,” the environment, and education. The monument was dedicated and opened to the public in 1998. It is located in an independent park, which also houses the National Museum, National Library, and the University of Botswana. The site of the monument is also strategically placed – it was designed to not only commemorate the three chiefs but also as a place of contemplation and understanding to emphasize colonial and tribal history of Botswana. The Three Dikgosi Monument is an important symbol in Botswana; it serves as a reminder of leadership and history and is a testament to the importance of cultural and national pride. It’s a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the pride and unity of the people of Botswana. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Three Dikgosi Monument is the official symbol of Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. 2. It was unveiled in July 2017 by President Ian Khama in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Botswana's independence. 3. The Monument represents three Dikgosi (Chiefs) of the three main ancestral tribes of Botswana: Bangwato, Bamangwato, and Basarwa. 4. At the base of the 3.4 metres tall monument are reliefs depicting three iconic scenes in the traditional lifestyle of the three Dikgosi. 5. The monument was created by award-winning South African artist Angus Taylor in a modern interpretation of traditional African art styles. 6. It is made from African sandstone and stainless steel, and was quarried and manufactured in South Africa. 7. The three Dikgosi, namely Khama III, Sebele I and Bathoen I, are represented looking outward to the future, and their monument is a constant reminder for the people of Botswana respect for their ancestral heritage. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.