Francistown, Botswana

Capital City

With a population of just over 103,000, Francistown is Botswana's second-largest city. Once a gold rush town, it now serves as a transport hub, with mining, commerce, and agriculture driving the local economy. However, the city's bureaucratic headaches are a persistent challenge - the refurbishment of its main museum has dragged on for years. Francistown's climate is hot and semi-arid, with a brief wet season and chilly, dry winters. For those drawn to the region's natural resources and cross-border trade opportunities, Francistown may be worth considering, but the red tape and harsh climate are not for the faint of heart.