Botswana Remembers Former President Festus Mogae, Who Passed Away at 86

Gaborone – The Botswana Government has announced three days of national mourning in honor of former president, Festus Mogae.

The former leader, who was the third president of Botswana from 1998 to 2008, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 86.

Botswana President Duma Boko has expressed condolences to the bereaved Mogae family and the entire Batswana nation.

President Boko stated that the country is mourning the loss of a disciplined and humble leader who served with great distinction.

During this mourning period, national flags will be flown at half-mast throughout the country.

“As a nation, we share the sorrow of losing a remarkable leader and servant of the people who demonstrated unwavering commitment to Botswana throughout his lifetime,” President Boko added.

Former president Seretse Khama Ian Khama, who succeeded Mogae, also offered his condolences.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have learned of the passing of my predecessor, His Excellency Dr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae,” Ian Khama expressed.

“He was a guiding light, a trusted advisor, and a reservoir of wisdom, for which I hold a special sense of gratitude.

“I had the honor of working closely alongside him as his Vice President, and I witnessed firsthand his profound love for Botswana.”