GENERAL INFORMATION
Botswana is one of the first wildlife destinations in the world. Formerly known as Bechuanaland, a British protectorate, The Republic of Botswana gained independence in 1966 under Sir Seretse Khama. Since then there have been decades of civilian leadership, progressive social policies and significant capital investment. Botswana has enjoyed remarkable economic growth since independence. From being one of the poorest countries, it has emerged as one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
Botswana is located in Southern Africa and covers approximately 600.000 km2. It is bordered South Africa in the South, Namibia in the North and Zimbabwe and Zambia in the East.
There are approximately 1,5 million people making up the population of Botswana. The country's official language is English with Setswana being the second most speaking language. The population follow traditional ethnic religious beliefs.
The dominant economic activity is diamond mining but with the natural abundance of wildlife gave, reserves and national Parks, the tourism is contributing to increase its economy.
Botswana offers something to everyone. Hunting and gathering is practised by all tribesmen, but it is guided by very strict traditional conservation strategies. This cultural heritage has enabled Botswana to preserve vast and diverse species of wildlife and natural resources. Al least 17% of Botswana is reserved as parks, which facilitates the protection of the fragile natural environment.The seasons in Botswana are somewhat irregular. Rains generally start in October or November and can persist until March or April. There may be long dry spells within that time. The best time to visit Botswana is April to October when the days are sunny and not too hot.
Botswana is a land of contrasts where one can experience contrasting life styles. Travel from the busy urban centres to rural villages. Safaris, canoeing, boat cruises, hunting and fishing adventures make it the ideal destination for most adventurers.
The capital of Botswana, Gaborone, is named in honour of Chief Gaborone, who led his tribe to this area from the Magaliesberg in 1880. Ten years later Cecil John Rhodes chose this little settement as the site of a colonial fort. When Botswana began to move towards independence in the early sixties, Gaborone was chosen as the site for the new capital due to its strategic location, the availability of a reliable water supply and its proximity to the cross continental railway line.
Gaborone has all the facilities of any modern capital city. There is a range of hotels and a choice of cinemas and casinos. Restaurants are numerous and varied and night clubs offer enjoyment to everybody.
The National Museum is situated near the centre of town and houses. There are important collections of traditional crafts and southern African fine art.
There is an international airport on the outskirts of the city.Geographical facts in the book:
All of these geographical facts are shown clearly through the whole novel. Some of the best known places as The Kalahari Desert or the Mopane Woodland are widely describe.
We are reading the different chapters and we are discovering more about this lady's detective agency. At the same time, the author is sharing with us his deep knowledge of Botswana. He describes perfectly how people used to work in the diamond mines before the Independence, which are their traditional habits and beliefs, the way of living in the capital city Gaborone, which seems to be a modern city, and the way of living in the country.
Flora Lomener Carmona