Travel Guide Molepolole

Often referred to as the 'gateway' to the Kalahari and located some 60 kilometres northwest of the capital, Molepolole is one of Africa's largest traditional villages, with a population of over 70,000. It was occupied in the 16th and 17th centuries by the Bakgwateng before becoming, in the mid-19th century, the capital of the Bakwena, one of the main Tswana tribes. Nowadays, the village, whose centre is very lively, offers a curious blend of modernity and tradition, with its earthen huts surrounded by stone walls and mixed with petrol stations, various shops and its hospital, one of the largest in the country. On the main road, opposite Barclay's Bank, the Kgosi Sechele I Museum is one of the main points of interest in the village, housed in what was once the police station, a colonial building dating from 1902. The exhibits presented seek to preserve and enhance the culture of the Bakwena people, now in danger of extinction. In addition to these educational exhibitions, the Arts and Crafts Museum also offers guided tours of the village. Take time to observe the kgotla, the community's meeting place, as well as buildings related to the missionary era, such as the Scottish Livingstone Memorial, the Mission House and the London Missionnary Society Church. At the exit of Molepolole, on the Thamaga Road, is the Livingstone Cave from which the Scottish explorer came out alive, to the amazement of Chief Sechele.