AU mourns demise of former Botswana President Festus Mogae

The African Union has expressed sorrow over the passing of former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae.

Mr. Mogae reportedly passed away on Friday, May 8, at the age of 86.

He served as Botswana’s third president from 1998 to 2008 and is credited with strengthening the country’s economy and promoting democratic governance.

In a statement issued by the Chairperson of the AU Commission on Saturday, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the continental body described the late statesman as a distinguished African leader committed to democracy, peace and development.

“Former President Mogae will be remembered for his distinguished leadership, steadfast commitment to democratic governance, economic development, and his dedicated service to the people of Botswana and the African continent,” the statement read in part.

The African Union also highlighted Mr. Mogae’s contribution to peacebuilding efforts in South Sudan through his role as Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC), where he supported dialogue and reconciliation efforts.

Paying tribute to the late former president, Mr. Youssouf described him as a respected Pan-Africanist whose leadership inspired many across the continent.

“Former President Festus Mogae was a respected African statesman whose humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and good governance inspired generations across our continent,” the AU Commission Chairperson stated.

The African Union Commission extended condolences to the government and people of Botswana, as well as the family of the late former president.