The planning history of Gaborone :: Mmegi Online

It is well known for readers today, as writers like Sandy Grant and others have told you, that the site for the new capital was chosen primarily because of the availability of water supply from a suitable dam site (and of course, land belonging to a very humble and understanding tribe). Plus, it was situated along the railway line with a “refreshment” hotel, well known to travelers for many years (and also planners, engineers and others involved – small things like this have a bearing to decisions, believe me).

So, the decision to place the new administrative centre for an independent Botswana was made at Protectorate Headquarters in Mafeking in the early 60’s. Who were the planners? Well, as far as I know from old UK friends at the former Department of Surveys and Lands (S&L), UK planners from Harare and Pretoria made up a team at Public Works in Mafiking in 1962.

They found themselves in a rush – my first picture from Gaborone in 1963 (pic 1) is indicating the clearing of roads – I love this photo but I guess people will need a magnifying glass to see the first construction steps.

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