Botswana’s former President Festus Mogae dies at 86
Botswana’s former President Festus ‌Mogae has died.
Mr Mogae died on Friday. He was 86 years old.
Mr Mogae, born on August 21, 1939,, was a Motswana politician and economist who served as Botswana’s third president from 1998 to 2008.
He was widely credited with strengthening Botswana’s economic management and governance systems during a period of rapid growth driven by diamond revenues.
He also helped the diamond-rich nation fight the scourge of HIV/AIDS during his time in office.
Before assuming the presidency, he held senior positions in government, including finance minister and later vice-president.
Confirming his death in a statement on Friday, Botswana’s President Duma Boko said, “Today Botswana mourns a distinguished statesman and patriot whose life was devoted to the service of his country.”
Last month, the government revealed that he was receiving medical care at a hospital in the capital, Gaborone, but did not disclose the nature of his illness.
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