Gaborone – Botswana's capital, built from 1964
Gaborone is a young capital with deep roots. People have lived along the Notwane River for centuries, and around 1880 the Tlokwa settled here. The place was later known as Gaberones, named after Chief Gaborone of the Tlokwa; the nickname "GC" comes from the colonial Government Camp.
The modern city was founded in 1964, when a new capital was needed for the country on its way to independence. In 1965 the seat of government moved here from Mafeking, and on 30 September 1966 Botswana became an independent republic. In 1969 the city took the name Gaborone. Today it is Botswana's largest city and its political and economic centre. Share your own Gaborone stories with the community!