12 May 2026

Tributes Pour In for Former President Mogae Messages of condolence and remembrance continue to pour in following the passing of Botswana’s third president, Dr Festus Gontebanye Mogae, who died on Friday at the age of 87. Regional leaders, former heads of state and political figures have described the late statesman as a principled leader, a champion of good governance and a respected voice of wisdom whose influence extended far beyond Botswana’s borders. Former president Lieutenant General Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama said he was mourning the loss of a man he described as more than just a predecessor.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing on of my predecessor His Excellency Dr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae,” Dr Khama said in a statement. He said said Dr Mogae was a guiding light, trusted counsellor and custodian of wisdom, adding that he carried a unique gratitude for the late leader’s mentorship and support. “I had the privilege of working closely with him as his Vice President and I experienced first-hand his deep love for Botswana,” he said. Dr Khama further extended condolences to the late statesman’s familly, saying Botswana had lost a great statesman whose life was dedicated to service. “We mourn a great statesman but we also celebrate a life lived in full service to his people,” he added.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia also paid tribute to the late former president, describing him as a distinguished statesman, principled leader and committed Pan-Africanist whose contribution to Botswana, the SADC region and the African continent would be remembered with admiration. In her message, President Nandi-Ndaitwah extended condolences to President Duma Boko, the government and people of Botswana, as well as the bereaved family. She noted that during De Mogae’s presidency, relations between Botswana and Namibia continued to flourish under a shared vision for regional peace, stability, economic cooperation and African unity. “Former President Mogae played an important role in deepening the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two sister republics,” she said. 

The Namibian leader further praised Dr Mogae’s calm leadership, humility, wisdom and commitment to good governance, saying those qualities earned him admiration far beyond Botswana. Former president Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi also joined the nation in mourning, expressing shock and disbelief at Mogae’s passing.

In a heartfelt message addressed to former First Lady, Ms Barbara Mogae and family, Dr Masisi described the late leader as one of Botswana’s greatest statesmen from whom he drew inspiration. “Rre Mogae was an astute and principled leader from whom I drew great inspiration and enjoyed his dignified support throughout my tenure,” Dr Masisi said. He said Dr Mogae remained honest, sincere and patriotic throughout his life and that he would forever cherish the counsel he received from him over the years.

Dr Masisi further prayed for strength for the grieving family during the difficult period of mourning. Dr Mogae served as Botswana’s third president from 1998 to 2008 and was widely respected for his disciplined leadership, sound economic stewardship and commitment to democracy and good governance. During his tenure, Botswana gained international recognition for prudent management of the economy and its strong response to the HIV/AIDS crisis. As tributes continue to pour in from across the continent and beyond, many have reflected on Mogae’s enduring legacy as a humble leader who devoted his life to the service of Botswana and Africa. ENDS