Mmabatho was the capital of Bophuthatswana. With the ending of apardheid in 1994, Bophuthatswana was integrated into the new North-West Province and Mmabatho became its capital. Later that same year the provincial capital was moved to Mahikeng and Mmabatho became a suburb of Mahikeng.

Because of its formerstatus as provincial capital, Mmabatho has many government buildings.

Mmabatho is 250 km west of Pretoria, close to the border with Botswana. There is little of interest to travellers in Mmabatho, but it's a good place to stock up as there is a large shopping center in town.

Accommodation and restaurants are available in town. Mmabatho has good road and rail connections with Mahikeng and nearby Botswana.