Sechele's Cannon: Ramsay versus Grant

Sechele's Cannon in Mafikeng Museum PIC. THALEFANG CHARLES
Sechele's Cannon in Mafikeng Museum PIC. THALEFANG CHARLES

Tomorrow (August 30) is the commemoration of the 1852 Battle of Dimawe between Batswana and the Boers. Below we republish two articles from historians Sandy Grant and Jeff Ramsay debating about Kgosi Sechele's cannon that was used during the battle.

Sandy Grant: SECHELE’S CANNON, MAFIKENG MUSEUM (2)

Understanding that Sechele’s cannon must have been totally useless is of far greater importance than knowing for certain from whom he had obtained it. The Mafikeng Museum informs its visitors that the cannon was made in England in 1770 and named ‘the Nelson’. It has a 94 mm caliber and was able to fire 2.7kg cannon ball 2769 metres.  Both the Museum and Dr Ramsay are agreed that Sechele had the cannon at Dimawe but thereafter-go different ways.

Editor's Comment
Masisi should avoid diplomatic tensions

Mokgweetsi Masisi’s recent spats regarding the supposed involvement of Eswatini and South Africa in accommodating former president Ian Khama have sparked concerns about the potential ramifications on diplomatic relations. While transparency is valued, it must be accompanied by strategic communication to mitigate unintended consequences.President Masisi’s comments during a diplomatic heads meeting have drawn attention to the delicate balance...

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