TSWANA ( BATSWANA ) PEOPLE OF SOUTHERN AFRICA.The Tswana, known to themselves as Batswana, are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group native to southern Africa. Their language, Tswana, falls under the Sotho-Tswana language family, which, in turn, belongs to the larger Bantu language family.
This rich linguistic heritage reflects the interconnectedness of the Tswana with other ethnic groups in the region, and their deep roots in the African continent. From its linguistic, cultural, and historical roots, the Tswana have forged their own distinct identity, shaping the landscape and society of southern Africa.
Batswana, the indigenous people of southern and eastern Botswana as well as several provinces in South Africa, are an integral part of the cultural and historical fabric of the region.
While a significant number of Batswana reside in Botswana, a larger population is located across South Africa, particularly in the Gauteng, North West, Northern Cape, Free State, and other provinces, where they have established communities and made significant contributions to society.
The Tswana people, numbering in the millions, are among the largest ethnic groups in South Africa, boasting a rich history, diverse culture, and prominent position in the nation's political landscape.
Indeed, the Tswana language, commonly referred to as Setswana, holds official status in South Africa, reflecting the prominence of this ethnic group in the country's social and cultural fabric.
The traditional Tswana belief system centered on Modimo, a supreme god believed to be the creator of human being and the universe. It was believed to wield the forces of nature, including winds, hail, rain, and even death.
Despite their significant presence in South Africa, the Tswana maintain strong ties to their ancestral homeland of Botswana, with many tracing their roots and lineage back to the region.
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