Gaborone – There was a sombre atmosphere at the University of Botswana Indoor Sports Centre in Gaborone, where mourners bid farewell to former president, Festus Gontebanye Mogae.
Mogae passed away last week, aged 86.
He became the third president of Botswana and served for a decade from 1998.
The former head of state was hailed as a disciplined leader, a patriot, and a statesman who carried the office of the Presidency with honour, restraint, and unwavering commitment to the Republic of Botswana.
Delivering a eulogy on Saturday, 16 May 2026, Botswana President Duma Boko said during his tenure as president, Mogae’s leadership safeguarded the stability of Botswana’s democracy, reinforced the credibility of its institutions, and elevated the country’s standing internationally.
President Duma said Mogae’s legacy was firmly embedded in Botswana’s history.
His service would continue to inspire future generations.
“I rise here today, at this solemn gathering, to add my voice to the chorus of praise and commendations for our departed leader and statesman,” President Boko said.
“I also dedicate these weak and feeble words to the memory of this great man.
“Today, we lay to rest our former president, the third president of the Republic of Botswana, Festus Gontebanye Mogae.
“When I received news of his passing, the words that came to my mind were relayed by Joseph Conrad: ‘He won’t be forgotten. Whatever he was, he was not common’.”
Afterwards, the former head of state’s Cortege departed from the University of Botswana’s precinct to the Phomolong Memorial Park in Gaborone, where he was finally laid to rest.
Various heads of state and other dignitaries were part of the mourners.
South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile attended the funeral on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Eswatini Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla represented King Mswati III.
Former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete were also among the mourners.
*All images courtesy of GCIS
