The government of Botswana has announced the death of former president Festus Mogae at the age of 86, prompting three days of national mourning.
“Today, Botswana mourns a distinguished statesman and patriot whose life was devoted to the service of his country,” BBC Africa quoted President Duma Boko as saying.
Mogae, Botswana’s third president, led the country from 1998 to 2008 and had reportedly been in poor health for some time. Last month, the government disclosed that he was receiving treatment at a hospital in Gaborone, although details of his illness were not made public.
During the mourning period, national flags will fly at half-mast in honour of the late leader.
Mogae is widely credited with strengthening Botswana’s economic management and governance systems during a period of rapid growth fuelled by diamond revenues. In a national address on Friday, Boko described him as a leader committed to “discipline, good governance, economic prudence and the advancement of our nation”.
Before becoming president, Mogae served in several senior government positions, including finance minister and vice-president. He also earned international recognition for championing democracy, good governance and a strong response to the HIV and Aids crisis.
Following his retirement from office, Mogae remained active as an elder statesman, speaking widely on leadership and democratic values in Africa.
In 2008, he received the prestigious Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership in recognition of his democratic leadership and peaceful transfer of power.
The Botswana government is yet to announce burial arrangements.
