Gaborone Comes Hungry

Lunch plans turned into an all-day affair as Kgale View Night Market brought global flavours, local entrepreneurs and Gaborone’s social butterflies to the Game City Parkade. Come for the food, stay for the discoveries.

 

GOSEGO MOTSUMI 

 

Who said a parkade couldn’t be a foodie destination? On Sunday, the Game City Parkade became a playground for hungry explorers as Kgale View Night Market returned, opening at noon for lunch before rolling into the night. The result was a welcome reminder that Gaborone’s market culture is about more than shopping: it is about eating adventurously, discovering local brands and finding your people.

 

My first stop was Jollof World. I had been looking forward to trying its food, and getting to taste egusi soup alongside jollof rice made the stall a personal highlight. The appeal was the chance to explore West African flavours without leaving the city. For anyone whose idea of a good outing involves discovering what’s cooking beyond their usual menu, this was the kind of stop worth making.

 

FOLLOW YOUR APPETITE

 

The Grill Masters stall was attracting its fair share of attention, with braaied beef cuts and bao buns drawing hungry marketgoers. It was a tempting combination of smoky, fire-grilled favourites and a different take on the bun. At Titan Burgers, mocktails offered a refreshing way to beat the heat between food stops.

 

There was more to browse beyond the plates. NutriBots Delights brought dried fruits and nuts, while local perfume brand Ikay Essence offered another reason to pause between bites. The mix of food, accessories, cosmetics and emerging businesses turned wandering into part of the entertainment.

 

LOCAL HUSTLE, SOCIAL ENERGY

 

What started as a small gathering at Kgale View Lodge has grown into a monthly fixture attracting up to 80 vendors, with Kgale Hill providing the backdrop. Its staying power lies in the combination of food, music, shopping and community.

 

The latest edition also marked TSW’s partnership with the market, including a red-carpet Fast Lane for eligible new users.

 

“Kgale View Night Market has developed a wonderful community,” said Hamza Tajbhai, speaking on behalf of the market.

 

That community is the secret ingredient. The market gives entrepreneurs a platform while offering visitors a reason to try something new. My verdict? Come hungry, arrive curious and leave room for one more stop. At Kgale View, Sunday lunch is merely the beginning.