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Sir Seretse Khama Statue

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Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)

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The Sir Seretse Khama Statue is a pivotal monument in Gaborone, situated directly in front of the National Assembly building within the government enclave. The monument honors the founding father and first President of Botswana, who led the nation from 1966 until his death in 1980. Sir Seretse Khama is celebrated for his visionary leadership, which steered Botswana toward becoming a stable democracy and one of Africa's fastest-growing economies. The statue was officially unveiled in 1986, marking the 20th anniversary of the country's independence. The bronze figure gazes resolutely into the distance, symbolizing Khama's foresight and his dedication to national unity and racial harmony. As a site of great ceremonial importance, the area surrounding the statue is often the setting for state celebrations and commemorations. For visitors, the monument provides an insight into Botswana's political history and the deep reverence that citizens hold for their first leader. The statue stands not just as a piece of art, but as a lasting symbol of sovereignty and the success of the Batswana state.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272725211814141722252627
Rain mm90776940871111346896

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The statue of Sir Seretse Khama is outdoors and freely accessible at any time. Visitors can view the monument up close and enjoy the surrounding square.
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Typical hours
As a public monument, there are no set opening hours - the statue is accessible around the clock. Best visited during daylight for clear views of the details.
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Photography
Photography is allowed at all times as it is a public sculpture. Try capturing the statue from different angles to include the surroundings.
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Time needed
Visiting the statue takes just a few minutes, well-suited for a short stop on a city walk. Allow about 10-15 minutes to appreciate the monument and take photos.
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Combine with
The statue is in central Gaborone, near the parliament building and main post office. Combine the visit with a walk to other city attractions.
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Getting there
The statue is centrally located, easily walkable from most hotels and shops downtown. Taxis and public buses stop nearby.
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Insider tip
Visit the statue in the morning when the light is soft and fewer people are around. Read up on Sir Seretse Khama beforehand to better appreciate the monument's significance.

Geography

Coordinates
-24.64650, 25.90300

Facts

  • The statue was unveiled in 1986 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of independence.
  • It is located directly opposite the entrance to the National Assembly in Gaborone.
  • Sir Seretse Khama served as Botswana's first President from 1966 to 1980.
  • The monument is cast in bronze and depicts Khama in formal attire.
  • He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1966.
  • The statue serves as a primary site for official ceremonies during Botswana Day on September 30th.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Masa Square CentreMasa Square Centre<1 km · SExplore →
Avani Gaborone ResortAvani Gaborone Resort2 km · NWExplore →
Gaborone International Convention CentreGaborone International Convention Centre2 km · SExplore →
Gaborone Game ReserveGaborone Game Reserve3 km · NEExplore →
Kgalagadi BreweriesKgalagadi Breweries4 km · NWExplore →
Notwane RiverNotwane River5 km · EExplore →
Moshaweng RiverMoshaweng River5 km · WExplore →
Gaborone ZooGaborone Zoo6 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Sir Seretse Khama Statue (6)

Three Dikgosi Monument

Monument in Gaborone, Botswana, honoring three traditional leaders.

Stone Monument

Stone monument in Gaborone; its exact purpose is not recorded.

Philatelic Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Gaborone focusing on stamps and postal history.

Botswana National Museum🏛 museum

National museum of Botswana in Gaborone, displaying cultural and natural history.

🕒 Tu-Fr 07:30-12:45, 13:45-16:30;Sa-Su 08:00-12:45, 13:45-16:0

Bonnington Farm

Historic farm in Gaborone, recalling the agricultural past.

Decoon

Attraction in Gaborone; its specific nature is not described.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who was Sir Seretse Khama?
The founding father and first president of independent Botswana.
Where exactly is the statue located?
In front of the National Assembly building in the Gaborone Government Enclave.
Is photography of the statue allowed?
Yes, tourists are generally allowed to take photos, but be mindful of the government surroundings.
Does it cost anything to visit?
No, the statue is in a public square and can be viewed for free.
When is the best time for a photo?
Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the heat.
Sir Seretse Khama Statue: where is it located?
Sir Seretse Khama Statue is located in Botswana.
Sir Seretse Khama Statue: what is there to see?
Highlights include Three Dikgosi Monument, Stone Monument, Philatelic Museum.
Sir Seretse Khama Statue: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.
Sir Seretse Khama Statue: why is it worth visiting?
The Sir Seretse Khama Statue is a pivotal monument in Gaborone, situated directly in front of the National Assembly building within the government enclave.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Masa Square Centre — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Masa Square Centre
Masa Square is a vibrant lifestyle and business landmark in the Gaborone CBD, known for its modern design and upscale amenities.
National Assembly Building — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
National Assembly Building
The National Assembly building is the seat of Botswana's Parliament, representing the country's long-standing democratic traditions.
Botswana National Museum — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Botswana National Museum
The National Museum complex is a cultural landmark in Gaborone, housing the nation's most important art and historical collections.
Three Dikgosi Monument — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Three Dikgosi Monument
This central landmark in Gaborone features impressive bronze statues of the three tribal chiefs who secured Botswana's future.
iTowers — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
iTowers
A modern high-rise complex shaping Gaborone's skyline.
SADC Headquarters — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
SADC Headquarters
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) headquarters is a modern office complex and a symbol of regional cooperation.
Bank of Botswana Headquarters — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Bank of Botswana Headquarters
The Bank of Botswana building is a financial landmark, housing the central bank responsible for the nation's monetary policy.
Orapa House — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Orapa House
Orapa House is a famous landmark in Gaborone, formerly used for the sorting and valuing of the nation's diamonds.

More places

Gaborone Botanical Garden — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Gaborone Botanical Garden
The Gaborone Botanical Garden is a serene green space showcasing indigenous plants and providing an educational park for children.
Gaborone Game Reserve — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Gaborone Game Reserve
A small, city-adjacent wildlife reserve.
Gaborone Nature Trail — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Gaborone Nature Trail
An easy hiking trail for children to explore local flora.
Notwane River — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Notwane River
A river that flows through Gaborone.
Moshaweng River — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Moshaweng River
The Moshaweng is a seasonal river in southern Botswana, typical of the dry drainage systems found in the Kalahari region.
Gaborone Zoo — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Gaborone Zoo
A small zoo for children for wildlife observation.
Gaborone Dam — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Gaborone Dam
A popular recreation area at the dam.
Mokolodi Nature Reserve — Sir Seretse Khama Statue (Botswana)
Mokolodi Nature Reserve
An educational center for nature conservation with many interactive opportunities.