The Batswana peoples (Batswana being the collective
term for the varied tribal groups in Botswana) depend on the
land for a living in some form or another
Although there has been a marked migration of people into towns in search
of fast diminishing employment opportunities, many still hold onto
the traditional concept of the ‘cattle post’ and the ‘home
village’. Many Batswana, particularly the older generation,
while working in towns, may still return to their village or cattle
post at weekends and holidays. Owning cattle is still seen traditionally
as a symbol of wealth and status.
Half the people in the country are of Tswana origin (the term used
to describe the 10 or so major groupings of people within the country
and the 2 million from South Africa’s Bophuthatswana area).
The largest group within the country is the Bangwato. Each group
has its own traditional chiefs and proprietal rights over their
own lands. There are also several non-Tswana minority groups including
the Humbukushu and the Bushmen. Setswana and English are the official
main languages in the country and thanks to a sound educational
system where the majority of Batswana receive an education to at
least upper primary level, many can speak English.
Liquid Giraffe
Private Bag 114, Maun, Botswana.
E Mail : info@liquid-giraffe.com
Tel: + 267 6801054 Fax: + 267 6801053
