Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
FORMER Botswana President, Festus Mogae, has been laid to rest at Phomolong Memorial Park in Gaborone, with regional leaders and thousands of mourners paying tribute to a statesman widely regarded as a champion of Pan-African development and economic transformation.
An emotional memorial service was held at the University of Botswana on Saturday morning, drawing former Heads of State, government officials and dignitaries from across the region to honour Botswana’s third President.
Regional leaders described the late Dr Mogae as a visionary leader whose influence extended beyond Botswana and the Southern African region.
Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete said the late leader played a significant role in advancing the Pan-African agenda.
“His influence was not only here in Botswana and the SADC. He was a distinguished son of Africa who championed the Pan-African vision for the continent.”
Former Lesotho Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili described Dr Mogae as a principled and exemplary leader.
“A true Pan-African and shining example of true leadership, he was a true patriot and a rare vision of leadership.”
Former Botswana President Ian Seretse Khama reflected on Dr Mogae’s wisdom and statesmanship.
“I came to appreciate the depth of his intellect and the calm strength of his wisdom. He was a wealth of knowledge, navigating issues of governance and statecraft calmly.”
Botswana President, Duma Boko, said Dr Mogae’s legacy would remain deeply embedded in the country’s history.
“He will not be forgotten, whatever he was , he was not common, he was a technocrat of humble beginnings.”
Zimbabwe was represented by Vice President Colonel (retired) Dr Kembo Mohadi on behalf of President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“His was a dignified standoff of a statesman. We have so much that we will remember him for as we reflect on his works for Africa and its people, of course, all we can say is may his soul rest in peace,” he said.
The late former Dr Mogae was a renowned economist who championed socio-economic programmes that contributed immensely to the Pan-African development discourse.
