Festus Mogae, former president of Botswana, has died at 86 years old. He passed away following a prolonged period of illness.
President Duma Boko announced the death in a national address on Thursday. "Botswana mourns a distinguished statesman and patriot whose life was devoted to the service of his country," Boko said.
Last month, the government had confirmed Mogae was receiving medical care at a hospital in Gaborone. However, specifics about his condition were kept private.
Mogae served as Botswana's third president from 1998 to 2008. During his decade in office, he earned widespread recognition for improving governance and economic performance.
Beyond his presidential tenure, Mogae maintained close ties with Daily Trust. In 2016, he took over as chairman of the Daily Trust African of the Year Award selection committee from Salim Ahmed Salim.
He guided the committee in identifying outstanding Africans making exceptional contributions to human development. The award became known for recognising transformative leaders across the continent.
President Boko praised Mogae as a leader who championed discipline and sound governance. According to him, Botswana gained its global standing for principled leadership under Mogae's watch.
In his honour, Boko declared three days of national mourning. Government buildings will display flags at half-mast throughout the country during this period.
Before reaching the presidency, Mogae held crucial government roles. He served as minister of finance and later as vice-president.
His most celebrated achievement was steering Botswana's battle against HIV/AIDS. At the time, the nation faced one of Africa's highest infection rates.
Mogae's administration rolled out a comprehensive antiretroviral treatment scheme. It dramatically cut infection rates and saved countless lives across the country.
