Lake Viva Naughton | Kemmerer

The Sbrana Psychiatric Hospital Historic Zone is a collection of former hospital buildings located in Lobatse, Botswana.

Visual Characteristics

The structures are primarily single-story buildings constructed from concrete and brick. Exterior walls are painted in muted, utilitarian colors, predominantly off-white and pale grey. Roofs are generally corrugated iron. The architectural style is functional and institutional, characterized by simple rectangular forms and minimal ornamentation. Some buildings exhibit signs of weathering and disrepair.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated approximately 3 kilometers west of Lobatse's central business district. Access is via the A2 highway, turning onto Hospital Road. The hospital grounds are accessible by private vehicle, with limited unpaved parking available within the perimeter. Public transport to Lobatse is available via bus services from Gaborone. Local taxis can be hired from Lobatse town to reach the hospital zone.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Sbrana Psychiatric Hospital was established in 1965. It was designed to serve as the primary mental health facility for Botswana. The original purpose was to provide inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. The site is situated on a relatively flat, arid landscape typical of the southern Botswana plateau.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the abandoned hospital buildings. Observation of the architectural remnants of a former healthcare institution. Photography of the site's current state of decay.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No public restrooms are available. Limited natural shade is provided by sparse acacia trees. Cell phone signal is intermittent within the site. No food vendors are present on the immediate grounds; facilities are available in Lobatse town.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates longer shadows and highlights the textures of the buildings. The dry season, from May to October, offers the most comfortable weather conditions with minimal rainfall.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the hospital was named after a prominent local elder, though official records do not confirm this. The site is known for its quiet atmosphere, with the wind often being the most prominent sound.

Nearby Landmarks

• Lobaste National Museum (2.5km East)
• Lobaste Town Square (3km East)
• Lobaste Railway Station (3.5km East)
• Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) Abattoir (4km Southeast)