Such a state as Botswana did not exist on the world map until 1966. The country, which at that time was under the British protectorate, was called Bechuanaland. Noteworthy is the fact that the capital - Mafeking - was generally located outside its territory. The current administrative center of Botswana is called Gaborone. It is a young, but very fast growing city, which will be discussed in more detail below.
Short story
State of Botswana on the map can be found in the southern part of the African continent. As already noted above, this territory was under the protectorate of Great Britain until 1965. It was then that she became the eleventh African colony to proclaim its independence. Immediately after that, it became necessary to choose its state administrative center. At that time, nine cities claimed to be the capital of the country, each of which met the necessary requirements. The winner of the competition was the small village of Gaborone. The choice in his favor was made primarily on the basis of a successful strategic location (including due to the presence of large sources of water within reach, as well as the proximity of the railway).
general description
Gaborone is a relatively young capital. A small-sized village located on the banks of the Notvana River, in the southeastern part of the country, at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level, was rebuilt into a large city quickly enough. All its main infrastructure was commissioned on September 30, 1966. It was then that the state celebrated its first anniversary of independence. In record time, a powerful power plant, government buildings, hospitals, banks, schools, shops, a church and other necessary infrastructure were erected.
The capital of Botswana is planned in such a way that it is stretched along the railway line from north to south. And from west to east, it intersects with a boulevard that connects administrative districts with the airport. The area of the city is about 169 square kilometers, and its population is just over 227 thousand inhabitants. Since the vast majority of buildings were built relatively recently, a significant part of the city is a combination of concrete, steel and glass.
Climate
Botswana is a country that is influenced by the continental subtropical climate. Its capital was no exception. The warmest month of the year is January, when the thermometer is at around 24 degrees. The coolest time is July, with an average monthly temperature of 12 degrees above zero. There are never frosts here. As for precipitation, it falls very little (about 500 millimeters per year).
Infrastructure and transport
The vast majority of government offices are located in the city center. Among them are the National Assembly, State University and the National Museum. In addition, a monument to residents of the country who died during the Second World War enjoys popularity among tourists. The capital of Botswana has a well-established network of bus routes. With this mode of transport you can get to any part of Gaborone. If you wish, you can relatively cheaply rent a car here. The international airport is located just 10 kilometers from the city limits. As for the acquisition of souvenirs, there will be no problems with this, because numerous shops and shops are located on almost every corner, especially in the center.
Tourist attraction
As of today, it cannot be said that the capital of Botswana is a popular destination for travelers. Be that as it may, the tourism infrastructure is well developed here. In the city there are international hotel chains, cinemas, casinos and restaurants. Due to the small age of Gaborone, it does not have any outstanding attractions. Be that as it may, their absence is fully compensated by the unique wildlife surrounding the city. In addition, there are many parks and several nature reserves, including St. Clair, a place inhabited by lions. Once in this city, it is necessary to visit the old part of Gaborone, which is called the "Village". It has preserved some buildings that reflect the remnants of the country's colonial history.
Gaborone these days
The capital of Botswana is located only 15 kilometers from the border of one of the most developed countries in Africa - South Africa. In this regard, it is not surprising that, as in the neighboring state, the diamond industry is at a high level of development. Construction in the city does not stop. New areas, houses, shopping centers and even night clubs are constantly growing in it. Gaborone is gradually transforming into a major tourist center on the African continent. One more confirmation of this is the fact that the number of tourists here is growing from year to year. At the same time, local residents greatly respect the national traditions. Most of the indigenous people live in the suburbs, coming to the center only for work. Gaborone is now the main economic center of the state, which continues to develop dynamically.