Documentation done as transformation dream gathers momentum
Francistown is preparing to unveil an exciting new attraction that promises to celebrate its rich history while creating fresh opportunities for tourism growth.
The long promised documentation of the city’s heritage trail is finally complete, paving the way for a diversification plan aimed at transforming Ghetto into a competitive, sustainable economic hub.
This was confirmed by City Mayor, Gaone Majere in his recent Full Council address.
The Mayor reiterated his council’s commitment to diversifying Francistown’s economy through sectors such as tourism, particularly sports tourism and the promotion of the City’s Heritage Trail.
With the documentation done, Majere revealed plans are underway to erect directional and informational signage at identified heritage sites to facilitate operationalisation and promotion of the trail.
“This initiative is expected to stimulate tourism activity, attract visitors, preserve the city’s rich history and culture, and create opportunities in tour guiding, hospitality, transport, arts and crafts, and informal trading,” he said.
The heritage trail is designed to connect a series of historically significant sites, guiding visitors through Francistown’s fascinating past, which dates all the way back to 1897.
From its origins as a mining settlement during the gold rush era to its role as an important trading and transport hub, the trail will highlight the people, places and events that contributed to the city’s development over more than a century.
Once the signage is installed, visitors will be able to follow clearly marked routes and discover historical landmarks at their own pace.
Informative displays will provide insights into the city’s cultural heritage, making history more accessible and engaging for both local and international tourists.
Regarded as the country’s oldest modern town, Francistown is home to major historical sites such as the Old Tati company buildings, Supa Ngwao Museum, Old Government camp as well as old mining and memorial monuments.
During the official launch of the Francistown City Tourism initiative in January, Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi said it was time for the world to walk the city’s heritage trail and learn about a city that helped ignite Southern Africa’s industrial revolution.
Mmolotsi mentioned the part played by the city during the liberation struggles of countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, noting the story should be shared with the rest of the world.
The Minister, who double as Member of Parliament (MP) for Francistown South, also wants locations like White City and Bluetown, where former states men like Sam Nujoma (RIP), Hifikepunye Lucas Pohamba, Hage Geingob (RIP) and Nangolo Mbumba once called home, to be immortalized.
