12 May 2026

The mere mention of the name, Dr Festus Mogae, made people pause and pay attention, not because he was an autocrat, but because his accomplishments made it difficult for anyone to ignore.

Though modest about his attainments, the world took notice. Dr Mogae was known and loved here at home and beyond.

As Botswana’s third president, he continued serving the nation and the world even after his term in office came to an end in April 2008.

He was involved in peace efforts in the continent, gave public lectures, his voice never died on HIV/AIDS related matters, and here at home, he remained inspirational.

That is why when the world learnt of his passing on May 8, those who crossed paths with him took a moment to reflect on the many lives he touched.

Grief, knows no colour or creed, hence the international community like many Batswana, took to social media platforms with tributes, marking the passing of a man who left a formidable mark on his nation and the international community.

The African Union (AU) Commission chairperson, Mr Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed profound sorrow at the passing of former President Mogae. 

A statement from AU Facebook page read, “former President Mogae will be remembered for his distinguished leadership, steadfast commitment to democratic governance, economic development, and his dedicated service to the people of Botswana and the African continent. 

He also made a significant contribution to peace efforts in South Sudan through his role as chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC), where he supported the implementation of the peace agreement and the advancement of dialogue and reconciliation.”

The statement further said that Dr Mogae was a respected African statesman whose humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and good governance inspired generations across the continent. Africa has lost a distinguished leader and devoted Pan-Africanist.

“Dr Mogae’s leadership of the country was foundational to Botswana’s peaceful democracy, and his courage in confronting the scourge of HIV/AIDS created a brighter future for the millions of Batswana. Surely a mighty tree has fallen,” the US Embassy in Gaborone, posted on their Facebook and X platforms.

Namibia president, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, post on the Namibian Presidency Facebook page read, “former President Mogae was a distinguished statesman, a principled leader, and a committed Pan-Africanist whose contribution to Botswana, the SADC region and the African continent will be remembered with great respect and admiration. He played an important role in deepening the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two sister republics. His calm leadership, wisdom, humility and commitment to good governance earned him admiration far beyond the borders of Botswana.”

President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia sent heartfeltf its people,” posted Mo Ibrahim Foundation on their Facebook and X social media platforms.

Former ambassador of the European Union to Botswana, Mr Jan Sadek, who is currently ambassador of EU to Uganda, also posted on his X account a message of condolence that said: “saddened by the passing of former President Festus Mogae. He embodied a proud tradition of leaders turning Botswana’s diamond wealth into prosperity for all. I had the honour of meeting him, a true statesman. Rest in Peace.”

British high commissioner to Botswana, Mr Giles Enticknap, also took to X, to pay tribute to Dr Mogae, describing him as a deeply respected statesman and friend of the UK, who served Botswana with wisdom and integrity. “My sincere condolences to his family, and to the government and people of Botswana,” Mr Enticknap’s message read.

From X account of the prime minister of eSwatini, Mr Russel Dlamini, his message read, “the noble legacy Dr Mogae bequeaths shall remain a guiding light and a perennial source of inspiration for present and future generations of African leaders and citizens alike. The Kingdom of eSwatini extends its most profound and heartfelt condolences to the President, and the government and people of Botswana upon the solemn occasion of the passing of Festus Gontebanye Mogae, former president of Botswana.”

UNAIDS executive director, Ms Winnie Byanyima, posted on her X account: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae, a visionary leader who confronted HIV with honesty, science and compassion when few dared to do so. His legacy lives on in the many lives saved and changed, and in the global AIDS response he helped shape. May he rest in power and peace.”

A message from Amref Health Africa group CEO, Dr Githinji Gitahi, read: “President Mogae was a distinguished African statesman whose leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service left a lasting mark across the continent. A respected economist and global champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, he dedicated his life to advancing health, development, and dignity for African communities. President Mogae believed in the power of evidence-based learning, community-centred health systems, and collective action to build a healthier and more equitable Africa. His legacy will continue to inspire our work and the many lives he touched