Gaborone

Southern Africa, Botswana
Botswana

People from Gaborone are called:

Male/General:

Gaboronian

Pronunciation:

/ˌɡæbəˈroʊni/

Quick Facts

Population:
246,325 (2024 est.)
Country:
Botswana
Region:
Southern Africa

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Etymology & Origin

The name Gaborone was given in honor of Chief Gaborone of the Tlokwa tribe, who led his people to the area in the late 19th century. Originally known as Gaberones, the city was selected to be the capital of the newly independent Botswana in 1966 because of its proximity to a reliable water source and its neutral position among the country's major ethnic groups.

Notable People Associated with Gaborone

This place has been connected to many influential figures throughout history.

Politics & Leadership

Seretse Khama

Serowe, Botswana

First President of Botswana and founding father of the nation. His controversial marriage to a white British woman defied apartheid-era racial politics, and he led Botswana to become one of Africa's most stable democracies.

First President of BotswanaIndependence LeaderDemocratic Governance

Music & Entertainment

Mpule Kwelagobe

Gaborone, Botswana

First woman from Botswana to win Miss Universe in 1999. She has used her platform to advocate for youth development, HIV/AIDS awareness, and women's empowerment in Africa.

Miss Universe 1999HIV/AIDS AdvocateYouth Ambassador

About Gaborone

  • Capital and largest city of Botswana since independence in 1966.
  • Planned city built to serve as the new nation's capital.
  • Important center for diamond trade and Southern African development.
  • Modern city known for its orderly layout and rapid growth.
  • Major hub for regional organizations and international cooperation.

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