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Three Dikgosi Monument
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Historical site
The Three Dikgosi Monument, located in the Central Business District of Gaborone, is a significant national landmark inaugurated on September 29, 2005, by President Festus Mogae. The 5.4-meter-tall bronze statues depict the tribal chiefs Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I, who famously traveled to London in 1895. Their mission was to request protection from Queen Victoria for the Bechuanaland Protectorate against the expansionist interests of Cecil Rhodes and the British South Africa Company. This successful diplomatic intervention preserved the territory's autonomy and laid the foundation for Botswana's eventual independence in 1966. The monument complex features informational plaques detailing the country's history and the pivotal role of traditional leadership. It serves as a powerful symbol of national identity and is a primary venue for official state ceremonies and cultural celebrations, reflecting the peaceful heritage of the Batswana people.
- Location: Botswana
- Top sights: Three Dikgosi Monument · Stone Monument · Bonnington Farm
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 25 | 21 | 18 | 14 | 14 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 90 | 77 | 69 | 40 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 34 | 68 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Three Dikgosi Monument is a public outdoor monument, freely accessible at any time. The bronze statues of the three chiefs stand on a plinth and can be viewed up close.
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, there are no fixed opening hours - it is accessible day and night. Best visited during daylight to appreciate the statues' details and inscriptions.
Photography
Photography is obviously allowed, even with tripod or flash - no restrictions. The statues stand out well against the sky; striking shots can be taken at sunrise or sunset.
Time needed
A visit to the monument typically takes 10-15 minutes, as it is a single statue group. If you want to enjoy the surrounding gardens and the view of Gaborone, allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
The monument is located at the Government Enclave in Gaborone, near the National Parliament and National Museum. Combine with the Gaborone Game Reserve or the Main Mall shopping area.
Getting there
The monument is centrally located in Gaborone, easily reachable on foot from the city center. By bus, get off at the 'Government Enclave' stop - it's just a few minutes' walk.
Insider tip
Read the information boards to understand the story of the three Dikgosi - they are educational and well-designed. Combine the visit with a break on one of the benches under the trees' shade.
Geography
Facts
- The monument was officially inaugurated on September 29, 2005.
- Each of the three bronze statues stands exactly 5.4 meters tall.
- The historic diplomatic mission to London took place in 1895.
- The statues were cast by the North Korean firm Mansudae Overseas Projects.
- It is located in Gaborone's Central Business District (CBD).
- It honors Khama III of the Bangwato, Sebele I of the Bakwena, and Bathoen I of the Bangwaketse.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Three Dikgosi Monument (5)
Bonnington Farm
Historic farmstead in Gaborone, showing agricultural use and early settlement history.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for the Drei-Dikgosi-Monument?
No, the monument is a public square and freely accessible.
How much time is needed to visit the monument?
About 30 to 45 minutes are enough to admire the statues.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the square is flat and easy to navigate.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography for personal use is allowed without restrictions.
What is the best time of day to visit?
In the morning or at sunset the light is handy for photos.
Three Dikgosi Monument: where is it located?
Three Dikgosi Monument is located in Botswana.
Three Dikgosi Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Three Dikgosi Monument, Stone Monument, Bonnington Farm.
Three Dikgosi Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.
Three Dikgosi Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The Three Dikgosi Monument, located in the Central Business District of Gaborone, is a significant national landmark inaugurated on September 29, 2005, by President Festus Mogae.
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