Oudpress. Festus Mogae of Botswana. (Photo: Pius Utomi Ekpei/AFP)
Festus Mogae, former president of Botswana who led this country for a decade from 1998 and received praise for his fight against, among other things, HIV/AIDS, has died at the age of 86, the presidency said on Friday.
Mogae, an economist who studied in Britain, helped ensure strong economic growth oversight during his two five-year terms.
“As a nation we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and servant of the people whose commitment to Botswana remained unwavering throughout his life,” said Botswana’s President Duma Boko.
The government has declared three days of national mourning and flags will be flown at half-mast.
Mogae came to power as the country’s third president after the resignation of Ketumile Masire. He previously served as its deputy president.
He was succeeded in 2008 by Ian Khama, a former army chief and son of Botswana’s first president.
????️ On this day of the passing of former President Festus Mogae, the Embassy community wishes to share our condolences with all Batswana and his family.
Mogae’s leadership of the country was foundational to Botswana’s peaceful democracy, and his courage in confronting the scourge… pic.twitter.com/8RKsInNhka
— U.S. Embassy Botswana (@USEmbassyBW) May 8, 2026
Mogae is widely praised for his open fight against the fight against and management of HIV/Aids at a time when Botswana had one of the world’s highest infection rates.
He won the prestigious Ibrahim Prize in 2008 for his leadership in maintaining the country’s stability and prosperity during the crisis.
After leaving office, he headed the joint monitoring and evaluation commission and played a key role in overseeing South Sudan’s peace process.
Geordin Hill-Lewis, leader of the DA, expressed condolences on behalf of the party to Mogae’s family, the people of Botswana and everyone who was affected by his life and leadership.
“President Mogae is widely respected in Africa and the world as a principled leader. Under his leadership, Botswana has strengthened its reputation as one of Africa’s most stable democracies.”
The DA also praised Mogae for his unwavering fight to contain the HIV/Aids pandemic, while many other leaders on the continent denied its seriousness or even remained silent on the political stage.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Botswana at this time of mourning.”
It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of our former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae.
His legacy of service and leadership will forever be remembered.
I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and the nation at large. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/tXuMM5nOGK
— Duma Gideon Boko (@duma_boko) May 8, 2026