The Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and regional leaders have paid tribute to former Botswana President Festus Gontebanye...
The Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and regional leaders have paid tribute to former Botswana President Festus Gontebanye Mogae, who died on Friday at the age of 86. Leaders across the region described him as a dedicated democrat, peacemaker and humble statesman who contributed greatly to Botswana, Southern Africa and the African continent.
As news of his death spread across the region and internationally, President Emmerson Mnangagwa sent a condolence message to Botswana President Advocate Duma Boko and the people of Botswana. President Mnangagwa joined other African leaders in recognising Mogae’s political career and his contribution to regional development, governance and peace-building initiatives across Africa.
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In a condolence message released yesterday, SADC chairperson and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the region had received the news of Mogae’s passing with “profound sorrow and deep sadness.” He conveyed condolences on behalf of SADC Heads of State and Government as well as citizens across the regional bloc.
“On behalf of the SADC Heads of State and Government and indeed the citizens of the SADC region, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Her Excellency Mrs Barbara Gemma Mogae, former First Lady and the bereaved family, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, the Government and the people of the Republic of Botswana on this great loss,” said President Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa described the former Botswana leader as a distinguished statesman whose leadership continued to inspire the region and beyond. He said Mogae would be remembered for his commitment to peace, good governance and health advocacy during his time in office and in regional affairs.
The SADC chairperson also highlighted Mogae’s role in Botswana’s response to the HIV and AIDS pandemic. He said the former president demonstrated courageous and principled leadership during a difficult period by strengthening public healthcare systems and leading efforts to respond to the pandemic with compassion and determination.
“His courageous and principled leadership in the development and deepening of public healthcare and capacity to respond to the HIV and AIDS pandemic stands out as an example of high-level leadership and commitment to be remembered for generations to come,” President Ramaphosa said.
The African Union Commission also issued a statement mourning the former Botswana leader. African Union Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said Mogae would be remembered for his distinguished leadership, democratic governance and service to Botswana and Africa. The AU described him as a respected African statesman who upheld peace, democracy and integrity throughout his public life.
The African Union also recognised Mogae’s involvement in peace efforts in South Sudan through his role as chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC). According to the AU, he supported the implementation of the peace agreement and promoted dialogue and reconciliation during his tenure in the position.
“He also made a significant contribution to peace efforts in South Sudan through his role as chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC), where he supported the implementation of the peace agreement and the advancement of dialogue and reconciliation,” said Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
The AU Commission chairperson added that Africa had lost a devoted Pan-Africanist and principled leader whose humility and commitment to peace inspired many people across the continent. The AU extended condolences to the Government and people of Botswana as well as the former president’s family and loved ones.
President Mnangagwa, in his message of condolence, said Zimbabwe was deeply grieved by the death of former President Mogae. He said the late Botswana leader served his country with honour and distinction and would be remembered for promoting peace, good governance and regional integration within Southern Africa.
President Mnangagwa also acknowledged Mogae’s contribution to the formation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which was established to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds. He said Mogae’s death was a major loss not only to Botswana but also to the Southern African region and the African continent as a whole.
“As Zimbabwe, we will forever remember the enduring contributions in his various roles within the SADC region and the African continent at large. President Mogae will also be remembered for the role he played in the formation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme,” President Mnangagwa said.
Former President Festus Mogae leaves behind a legacy linked to democratic governance, public healthcare advocacy, regional cooperation and peace efforts in Africa. Tributes from SADC, the African Union and regional leaders reflected the impact he had on Botswana and the wider African continent during and after his presidency.
