19 May 2026

Former president Festus Mogae was remembered as a disciplined, humble and compassionate leader who guided Botswana through some of the country’s most critical moments.

Speaking before mourners gathered to honour the late statesman on Saturday in Gaborone, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe portrayed Dr Mogae as a leader whose discipline, humility and moral courage shaped Botswana’s rise into one of Africa’s most stable democracies.

“Every once in a while, God favours a nation with a steward prepared for its hardest hour,” Mr Gaolathe said, calling Dr Mogae a mighty acacia tree whose legacy would endure for generations.

He described Dr Mogae as a leader whose steadiness calms fear, whose discipline fortifies institutions and whose humanity gives courage to the people.

Mr Gaolathe praised Dr Mogae’s role in strengthening Botswana’s economy, protecting state institutions and leading the country during the HIV/AIDS crisis.

He reflected on Dr Mogae’s long career in public service, which included serving as Governor of the Bank of Botswana, Minister of Finance, Vice President and eventually Botswana’s third president.

Mr Gaolathe credited Dr Mogae with promoting fiscal discipline and responsible management of Botswana’s diamond wealth at a time when many African economies struggled with instability and debt.

The Vice President also highlighted Dr Mogae’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, saying he chose “truth over convenience” by confronting the crisis openly and mobilising both national and international support.

Beyond politics and governance, Mr Gaolathe remembered Dr Mogae as a dignified and compassionate man, deeply devoted to his family.

“He carried himself with the elegance of an older tradition of statesmanship,” Mr Gaolathe said, recalling Dr Mogae’s trademark ascot hat, pinstripe suits and measured public demeanour.ENDS