Contents
Khama III
Opposing the transfer of Bechuanaland to Cecil Rhodes’s company.
Internal reforms · Anti-company diplomacy
- Born
- c. 1837
- Birthplace
- Southern Africa
- Died
- 21 February 1923
More people
Khama III
Khama III was kgosi of the Bangwato from 1875 to 1923. He combined internal reforms with diplomacy as colonial expansion threatened the region now known as Botswana.
Early life
Chiefly family
Was the son of Sekgoma, a Bangwato ruler.
Trade and travel
As a young man participated in the changing regional economy of hunting, transport and trade.
Career
- 1860
Christian conversion
Was baptised, deepening disagreements with his father.
- 1875
Bangwato leadership
Established his long rule after succession struggles.
- 1895
British mission
Travelled with Sebele I and Bathoen I to oppose company control.
Leadership & legacy
Internal reforms
Promoted changes shaped by his Christian beliefs and political authority.
Anti-company diplomacy
Helped resist incorporation into the British South Africa Company’s territory.
Serowe
Established a new Bangwato centre at Serowe.
Beyond work
Religion and rule
Christian commitment shaped both his public policies and personal conduct.
Succession
His descendants continued to play major roles in Botswana’s political history.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Botswana history ↗Photo: Photograph by S.B. Bernard, Cape Town. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
