Ten Things I Wish I Had Known Before I Arrived in Gaborone

Posted by melissa1 on December 3rd, 2007

I have been to Southern Africa (not Botswana) prior to my placement, and lived in Zimbabwe as a child, however, that did not prepare me fully for the challenges of working in Gaborone. There are several little things that would have assisted to make my transition to working effectively-in-Gabs much simpler. I offer these ten points just to give those of you coming to Gaborone a little more insight into what might make your time easier here.

 

1.                  WHAT TO PACK: Pretty much anything you need is available in Gaborone, but perhaps not as common outside of the city. There is no need to stock up on toiletries or cosmetics or even medications, unless there is something very specific that you need or want. A wide range of shopping, including clothing, exists in Gaborone. My advice is to bring just the basics and anything you really need from home, it is inevitable that you will shop here!

 

2.                  BRING YOUR CELL PHONE: If you have a cell phone that is either tri-band or quad-band it will likely work here. I brought mine, got it unlocked in London (UK) en route and all I had to do is by a SIM card for $2.50cdn and I was good to go. I recommend unlocking in Europe en route if possible, or having it done here. I think things like that are more expensive in Canada, and the quality not as good. You will need a phone here, so unless you bring one, be prepared to by one.

 

3.                  WORK IS BUSY: Working hours will generally be between 7:30 – 4:30 or 8 – 5. The same hours as all other businesses and government offices. There is a mandatory paid hour-long lunch, when many offices are closed. Depending upon your position, there may be weekend activities you will be expected to attend occasion. There are many places one can travel for a weekend get-away.

 

4.                  ACCOMODATION IS WAITING: You will be living with other volunteers, most likely from Canada. The houses or flats are in secure complexes (electric fence & a guard) in good neighbourhoods. WUSC Gaborone arranges things so that people live in shared houses. Your roommates will likely be working at different organizations. Rent is paid directly to the WUSC office, and includes bills. My rent works out to just over $200cdn per month. WUSC Gaborone takes care of most of the things you need: i.e. dishes, fans, sheets, towels, buckets etc. so no need to carry it with you.

 

5.                  PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFO: The public transportation (kombis – mini vans that travel particular routes and squeeze in as many people as possible) travel from pretty much anywhere in Gaborone to anywhere else. Kombis cost about 50cents per trip. Walking to work may also be an option, but check with co-workers regarding your safety.

 

6.                  BRING A LAPTOP: There is very limited computer access (particularly internet) time/space at many workplaces, and the Internet cafes are very slow and expensive. However, there are many places that offer free wireless — cafes and restaurants — so if you have a laptop, bringing it is a GREAT idea. For your security it is also beneficial to have a backpack to carry your laptop in that does not scream out “there is a laptop in here!”

 

7.                  BE CAREFUL, BUT ENJOY YOURSELF: On the note of security. Muggings, thefts, rapes and break-ins are more common here than I had expected. We all know about the crime in South Africa but Botswana feels much safer. It is best to be prepared and sensible, but not to be overly cautious to the point it disrupts your stay here. Just be particularly careful at night, in quiet areas, and to not put your valuables on display. That being said, I’ve found Botswana a very friendly and comfortable place. And our accommodation is extremely safe.

 

8.                  TIME IS RELATIVE: Remember that things move at a different pace in
Botswana. If you are only here for a few months, come prepared to set goals that are small and achievable, or you may end up frustrated. Remember that a big part of what you are bringing is your presence, your ideas and your time.

 

9.                  CLOTHING: Clothing for the ladies. To avoid hassle and unwanted attention it is often better to wear skirts than pants, although pants are perfectly culturally acceptable. Skirts are comfortable and also cooler, and it gets hot if you are here in the African summer. If you are here during the winter, remember that Botswana can be quite cold and bring appropriate clothing. At work most people dress smart, but nice T-shirts are fine. Sleeveless tops may not be work-appropriate but are fine elsewhere. Even in the warmest season it’s best to bring layers – it rains on occasion and the air really cools off, and the nights can be quite chilly.

 

10.              ASK QUESTIONS: The director of WUSC Gaborone is a very well informed and efficient lady. If you have any urgent questions before leaving Canada for Botswana, I suggest asking her. If nothing else, she will forward your questions on the appropriate person.

 

Enjoy your time in Botswana! My time is up in a month, and I will greatly miss it here….

Posted in Botswana