Bloemfontein
Population: Approximately 618 000 (city proper, 2025 estimate)
Municipality: Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality
Province: Free State
Area code: 051
Established: 1846
GDP: While a specific GDP for Bloemfontein alone is not readily available, the Free State province, where it is located, had a GDP of approximately ZAR 304.3 billion (around US$16.5 billion) in 2022. Bloemfontein, as the provincial capital and a major economic hub, contributes significantly to this.
History
Bloemfontein, meaning "fountain of flowers" in Afrikaans, was founded in 1846 by Major Henry Douglas Warden, a British army officer, as a fort and administrative center. Its strategic location, at the crossroads of major transport routes, made it an ideal choice. In 1854, it became the capital of the newly independent Orange Free State Republic. During the Second Anglo-Boer War, it was captured by the British in 1900. When the Union of South Africa was formed in 1910, Bloemfontein was designated as the judicial capital of the country, a role it continues to hold. The city has a rich political history, hosting significant conferences and playing a role in the formation of various political movements.
Education
Bloemfontein is a significant educational center in the Free State. It is home to several prominent institutions:
- University of the Free State (UFS): A leading comprehensive university with a strong focus on research and community engagement.
- Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT): Specializing in vocational and technological education.
- Various TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges.
A wide range of public and private primary and secondary schools, including some of the country's oldest and most prestigious schools.
Law and government
As the judicial capital of South Africa, Bloemfontein houses the country's highest court, the Supreme Court of Appeal, which is the final court of appeal in all matters except constitutional matters. The Constitutional Court has the final say on constitutional matters, but it is based in Johannesburg
Provincial and local government
Bloemfontein is the capital of the Free State province, and as such, it houses the Free State Provincial Legislature and the offices of the provincial government.
The city falls under the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, which is governed by a Metropolitan Council elected every five years by the residents. This municipality is responsible for local services and governance within the broader Bloemfontein area.
