The past magic of Lobatse’s waters :: Mmegi Online

Nestled in a valley and known as the country’s oldest town, Lobatse bears on its stripes the early dreams of yesteryear Bechuanaland. It was in Lobatse where the country’s first few stretches of tarmac were laid, the first abattoir was built, and the High Court of Justice opened its doors. Years later, the town produced the country’s leading manufacturers and retailers, from Choppies to Flotek, Motovac, Furniture Paradise and BMC. When asked about the source of their inspiration, many of those pioneers have attributed it to something “in the waters of Lobatse,” writes TIMOTHY LEWANIKA

Once earmarked to be a plausible national capital, Lobatse was a town born with a star. The town’s “waters” herein used figuratively to depict its early lucky streak, were deep brooks that fostered innovation and made Lobatse a town of many firsts.

The country’s first abattoir was in Lobatse, marking the early dreams of industrialising through the beef industry. Under the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC), beef exports held the fort for the country’s fiscus before the dawn of the diamond age.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.