Facts for Kids

Welkom is a city in South Africa's Free State province. Its name means "welcome" in Afrikaans, and that's what you'll feel when you visit! 🏙

️ The city was officially founded in 1947 to support mining activities, especially gold mining. Today, Welkom is known for its friendly people and beautiful surroundings. With around 300,000 residents, it’s a place where you can find parks, schools, and shopping centers. The city is also famous for its unique rectangular layout, making it easy to navigate. 🌍

So, if you ever visit South Africa, Welkom is a wonderful place to explore!

Welkom began its journey as a small mining town in the mid-20th century. 💎

The city's history is tied to the discovery of gold in the area in the 1940s. This attracted many miners and their families, leading to rapid growth. In 1947, Welkom was officially established as a city, becoming an important center for gold mining. By the 1960s, it became one of the largest gold producers in South Africa! The city has seen many changes but remains proud of its mining heritage, attracting people from all over to work and live there.

Welkom has some exciting places to visit! 🎡

One popular spot is the Goldfields Casino, where families can have fun enjoying games and entertainment. The town's museums, like the Welkom Gold Mine Museum, teach visitors all about the area’s gold mining history and the life of miners. 🏛

️ There are beautiful parks, such as the President Brand Park, where you can picnic and play. And don't miss the Welkom Nature Reserve, which is perfect for hiking and spotting local wildlife! 🦓

There’s something for everyone in this lively city!

The economy of Welkom is mainly based on gold mining, which has been the main source of jobs since the city started. 💰

In fact, Welkom is part of the famous "Goldfields" area! Even though mining is very important, the city has also developed other industries, such as agriculture and retail. Many farmers in the region grow crops like maize and sunflowers. 🌻

Stores and businesses have popped up, providing jobs and services to locals. The economy may face challenges, but Welkom continues to thrive thanks to its hardworking residents!

The people of Welkom come from many different backgrounds, creating a vibrant and diverse culture! 🇿🇦 The main languages spoken are Afrikaans, English, and Sesotho, reflecting the city's rich heritage. Welkom hosts various cultural events and festivals, such as the annual "Mineworkers' Day" which celebrates the city's mining history and the contributions of workers. 🥳

The community loves music, dance, and delicious food, making gatherings festive and fun. With many parks, sports facilities, and social clubs, residents actively engage in both recreational activities and community service. 🤝

Welkom is located in the Free State province of South Africa. 🌄

The city sits at an elevation of about 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, which gives it stunning views! Welkom has a semi-arid climate, meaning it gets very little rain. ☀

️ Summers are warm with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can get chilly, dropping to around 0°C (32°F). The area is mostly flat, with some small hills. Welkom is surrounded by beautiful farmland, making it a lovely spot for nature lovers! 🌾

Did you know Welkom is one of the youngest cities in South Africa? 🎉

It was only established in 1947! The city is home to the largest art gallery in the Free State, where you can find amazing local artworks. 🎨

Also, Welkom's Goldfields area is recognized for its very deep gold mines, some going more than 3 kilometers underground! That’s deep! 🏞

️ The local motto is "Defensores Ventris," which means "Defenders of the Belly," reminding people about the importance of feeding families. Welkom is indeed a unique and fascinating place to learn about! 🌟

Welkom has a range of schools to make sure kids get a good education! 📚

There are primary schools, high schools, and even a vocational training center. The city values education and aims to provide opportunities for all children. The local government and community work together to improve educational facilities. ⚒

️ In addition to schools, there are libraries where kids can read and learn more. With dedicated teachers and various programs, Welkom is committed to helping the youth succeed academically and grow into responsible citizens! 👩

‍🏫

Getting around Welkom is quite easy! 🚗

The city is connected by well-maintained roads, making it accessible by car or bus. There are also taxis available for travel within town. 🚌

Although Welkom doesn’t have an airport, the nearest airport is about 45 minutes away in Bloemfontein. For people living in neighboring towns, the roads and public transport options facilitate easy commuting. The rectangular layout of the city makes it simple for residents and visitors to find their way to schools, shops, and parks.