This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
Botswana, a country I last visited years ago, is a land that defies many African stereotypes. With a population of about 2.3 million, the capital Gaborone has under 230,000 people, making it a relatively small and peaceful city.
One of the first things that struck me about Gaborone was its lack of traffic jams, a stark contrast to cities like Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Nairobi. The city's calm atmosphere is a testament to its honesty and democratic values.
As I walked around the city, I noticed that there were no monuments or statues that paid homage to extreme events, such as massacres or genocides. This is because Botswana has a relatively peaceful history, with no major conflicts or bloodshed.
However, the country's politics are not without controversy. The former president, Ian Khama, has been at odds with his successor, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, over issues of power and influence. The situation has reached a point where Khama has thrown his weight behind the opposition in the October 2019 elections, posing a serious threat to Masisi's rule.
Another interesting aspect of Botswana is its cultural scene. I noticed that there were very few women wearing natural hair, which is a common sight in many other African cities. This could be due to the country's conservative nature, but it also highlights the unique cultural identity of Botswana.
As I reflected on my visit to Botswana, I was struck by the country's gentle nature and its commitment to honesty and democracy. It is a land that defies many African stereotypes, and one that is worth visiting and learning more about.
