1960s in Botswana

The following lists events that happened during the 1960s in Botswana, beginning with its independence on 30 September 1966.

Incumbents President: Seretse Khama (1966–1980) Vice President: Quett Masire (1966–1980)

Events

1966

The Botswana National Stadium opens. 30 September – The Bechuanaland Protectorate is granted independence as Botswana. Seretse Khama is chosen as the first president of Botswana by the National Assembly. 17 October – Botswana is admitted to the United Nations. November – The Zambia high commission opens in Gaborone.

1967

1 April – The United Kingdom offers Botswana 13 million pounds in foreign aid. July – Diamonds are discovered in Orapa. July – The Bushmen Protection Bill is passed. August – President Khama visits Zambia. 29 September – The Mineral Rights in Tribal Territories Act and the Mines and Minerals Act grant the government control over mining. 19 October – Botswana's High Commission for East Africa in Nairobi is opened by Richard N. Mannathoko.

1968

21 May – Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda visits Botswana. 27 June – The Botswana–South Africa border is defined by the border established in 1884. July – The Tribal Land Act is passed, moving power over land allocation from the kgosis to land boards.

1969

13 June – Bathoen II leaves the Botswana Democratic Party and resigns his status as kgosi of the Ngwaketse to join the Botswana National Front. 23 June – The Debswana mining company is established. 18 October – The first national election of Botswana is held. The Botswana Democratic Party is challenged by the Botswana National Front but maintains its majority. December – Selebi-Phikwe is founded.

Deaths

1969 – Tsheko Tsheko

See also History of Botswana List of Botswana-related topics Outline of Botswana Timeline of Botswana

References