Sechele I: founder of the nation :: Mmegi Online

The year 2012 marks the 120th year since the death of Kgosi Sechele I of Bakwena. Sechele was a visionary leader, brave warrior and a moderniser who not only consolidated the Bakwena morafe but also laid the foundation for this nation (Batswana) as we know it today. To recognise the achievements of this great leader a committee has been formed to coordinate the construction of a monument park in Molepolole in his honour. Dr JEFF RAMSAY profiles Sechele I.

"All the Boers are still in laager, they have been in laager a long time. They dare not venture on their farms for fear of Sechele. Their cattle are dying fast being too many together, and disease is amongst them." - Diary of James Chapman, November 1852

Our eastern border with South Africa, from Mashatu to the Barolong Farms is a product of armed struggle. In 1852-53 Batswana merafe rallied under the leadership of Sechele I to defeat the Transvaal Boers. On this basis alone Sechele can rightfully be seen as having laid the foundations of modern Botswana.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Sechele I: founder of the nation

Explore

More

Lesenepole murder suspect dies by suicide in police cell

Selefu

Sharodan Farms scores big

Court finds sufficient evidence against Mojadigo

Safari Destinations celebrates 20 years of impact

Gaborone welcomes world’s rising table tennis stars

Botswana commits to bigger De Beers stake

Gov't steps up school infrastructure drive

The State apparatus must be sanitised