The establishment of the protectorate (Part 12) � �The lion and the crocodile�

We last left off with the Bechuanaland Protectorate’s Resident Commissioner Sidney Shippard, otherwise known to Batswana as “Morena Maaka,” frustrated in his repeated schemes to insight military action against the southern dikgosi, more especially Linchwe I of Bakgatla and Sebele I of Bakwena.

In each case calmer heads both on the ground and in London had thwarted his efforts to create a conflict in Bechuanaland similar to what his Rhodes-ian colleagues achieved against the Amandebele in Zimbabwe.

If with historical hindsight Shippard’s actions and the motives behind them seem clear enough, the at times vacillating role of his immediate superior, Her Majesty’s High Commissioner for South Africa Sir Henry Loch, is a bit more ambiguous.

Editor's Comment
Watch your tongue Mr President

While his leadership has brought about significant progress and development, it is imperative that he exercises greater caution in his choice of words, particularly when addressing sensitive matters.One of the primary concerns is the potential impact of his remarks on Botswana’s relationship with De Beers, the diamond mining giant that plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy.The partnership between Botswana and De Beers has been mutually...

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