I recently had the opportunity to travel through GaaMmaNgwato and returned with more questions than answers at the manner in which we appear to have neglected our heritage. Growing up outside the country, I never really had the opportunity to learn much about Botswana history and hoped to learn history lessons from the trip into Serowe, the country’s cultural hub – at least in terms of royalty and the governing dynasty. Although I had been to Serowe before, I had never had the chance to explore GaaMmaBesi is it is affectionately called. Upon arrival, my colleague, who hails from Serowe, took me to Seretse Khama’s residence at Palamaokue, located on the far end of the village. This is the house that President Ian Khama occupies when he is in the village. I also saw former president, Festus Mogae’s new house on the hilltop at Botalaute ward. It was however at the main Kgotla, (Kgotla-Kgolo-Yaga-Mmangwato) where I got the shock of my life on how we treat our historical monuments. As one would assume at that time of day, the Kgotla was empty. Sunset was drawing near and on the foothills of Serowe Hill, I spied an abandoned and eerie house. To my horror, I am informed that the house is actually where patriarch and founding president, the late Sir Seretse Khama, was born.
I could not believe my ears!
