Three Dikgosi Monument, Bronze monument in Central Business District, Gaborone, Botswana.
The Three Dikgosi Monument consists of three bronze statues, each 5.4 metres tall, of Khama III, Sebele I and Bathoen I, standing on a 7-metre monument in Gaborone's Central Business District. A coat of arms stands in front of the figures, and six plinths at their feet carry information on Botswana's history from the Mfecane period to independence.
The three chiefs Khama III, Sebele I, and Bathoen I traveled to Britain in 1895 to negotiate the separation of Bechuanaland Protectorate from the British South Africa Company's control. This mission was essential for securing the country's independence during a period of European dominance.
The monument displays carved panels representing national values such as Botshabelo for refuge, Bogaka for heroism, and Boipuso for independence. These terms help visitors understand the ideals that matter to the country.
The memorial sits in the business district between two main streets and is easy to reach on foot. The informational panels are written in English and offer background on the different sections.
The contract with Mansudae Overseas Projects was initially P7 million (about US$1.5 million) and rose to P10 million, with the final project cost around P10.5 million. Local sculptors protested the award; one unsuccessful local proposal by Masilonyana Radinoga showed the three chiefs gesturing and consulting among themselves. In 2015 parts of the statues began peeling, possibly from substandard materials.
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