03 Mar 2021

Botswana recognises the extraordinary and selfless service the late Mr Archibald Mogwe displayed when discharging his duties. 

This was said by President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi in Gaborone  yesterday when visiting the Mogwe family following the passing on last Thursday of the well known politician and consummate diplomat.

Reminiscing about the late Mr Mogwe’s life, Dr Masisi said he executed his roles with distinction.

“He had all the traits of a good leader. He had a keen interest in current affairs and always kept a radio on his side. His personal relationship with my father is well known. 

He shall remain an icon for the noble unique role he played for this country,” said President Masisi.

Mr Mogwe delivered an eulogy at the funeral service of the late Mr Setlhomo Masisi, the President’s father.

President Masisi said Mr Mogwe played a leading role in Botswana’s road to independence.

He said his party, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), would have fond memories of one of its founding fathers. 

President Masisi noted that Mr Mogwe attended the 2019 BDP Kang special congress becoming the oldest member at the assembly.

He recalled that Mr Mogwe danced when he (Dr Masisi) was elected party leader.

Dr Masisi pleaded with the family to afford the party an opportunity during Mr Mogwe’s send-off to sing praises in bidding him farewell.  “A huge void would be felt,” he added.

Mr Mogwe’s daughter, Alice, said her father had a special place for President Masisi in his heart. 

“He had it in his heart that you were age mates after the passing of your father. My dad had a knack for ‘dikgang’ in his welese. We feel grateful that we’d had him for so long. We thought at times that we would be having him forever,” she said.

He elder sister,  Ms Maleta Mogwe-Lock said her father lived like a teenager and enjoyed a good laugh. 

She shared some light moments the family and friends had with the old man until his last days. 

A memorial service for Mr Mogwe is scheduled for today while his funeral will be held in Gaborone Saturday. Ends