Celebrating a legacy like no other
Former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae was laid to rest at Phomolong Cemetery this morning in a dignified state funeral, as mourners from all walks of life paid their last respects to the fallen statesman and honoured his legacy.
Born in Serowe on 21 August 1939, Mogae will forever be remembered as the country’s third President, serving with distinction from 1998 to 2008.
A brilliant economist and a people’s person at heart, although he was ill for a while, his death at the age of 86 has hit the nation hard.
In honour of his extraordinary life, CHRISTINAH MOTLHABANE spoke to some of Francistown’s high-flyers to get their lasting memories of the great man.
KAREL LUDICK (45, Entrepreneur)
We have lost a true icon of politics. The former President Mogae will be remembered for his tremendous work in fighting for the introduction of ARVs while the country battled HIV/AIDS. He saved many lives and many are still benefiting from the solution he implemented which is ARVs. He will also be remembered for his leadership and patience. In every decision he made he ensured he consulted with the public. I am deeply saddened by his passing.
SHINGRAI MADONDO (44, Journalist)
He was one of the most grounded, humble, and visionary leaders who, during times when the future seemed uncertain, brought hope and trust to those affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic when it threatened to wipe out the nation. That alone earned him the respect, honor and reputation as the leader of the country. He was one of the calmest economists who even took an unpopular decision in 2005 of devaluing the Pula. His understanding of economics was indicated years later when people started realising how stable the currency was against major global currencies. He will be missed by many Batswana across the region, the entire continent of Africa let alone the world.
MICHAEL MACHU (51, BNF Politician)
Mogae was an exceptional leader especially when compared to his predecessor Masire. He took on leadership when the country was going through a critical time, severely affected by HIV/AIDS. He dedicated himself fully to addressing that crisis. His choice of Ian Khama as his successor led to some changes. He did not follow in Mogae’s steps. Mogae was a straightforward leader who refused to compromise his values or buy votes with false promises to please the voters. I remember his disagreement with Skelemani where he firmly told him he would not resort to lies to win political support. He was truly an honorable person and may his soul rest in peace.
JOJO MODIRI LUCAS – (45 BPF politician)
President Dr Festus Gontebanye Mogae was a profound statesman with impeccable credentials and the fountain of wisdom. He not only fought and arrested the enemy of HIV/AIDS, which was a great threat to many lives but also helped improve many livelihoods through inclusive developments shared accordingly.
I remember vividly talking to him in 2005 when I was still a journalist with Mmegi Newspaper asking him to increase the Youth Development Fund from P20, 000 to P50, 000, and indeed he authorized it in the next budget. He did so after listening to my reasons that spoke to the economic status and funds not permitting the youth then to start and run successful businesses.
GAONE MAJERE (40, Francistown Mayor)
Mogae was a truly principled man. I recall his response regarding LEGABIBO and the question of changing laws. He stated that he was not in a position to change legislation so early in his tenure. He consistently advocated for the interest of the majority and remained true to his decisions, never succumbing to pressure. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening the economy. I believe that if we had more leaders like him our economic standing would be much more secure today.
TSAGAE KEAKILE (42, Tonota East Councillor)
During his presidency, President Mogae made it a priority to engage directly with communities across Botswana. Like many villages, Tonota had the honour of receiving him at the kgotla, where he came not just as a leader, but as a listener. Those who were present will remember how he addressed issues affecting our people: development, education, health services, and the well-being of our families. At a time when Botswana was facing the serious challenge of HIV/AIDS, President Mogae stood firm and honest. He spoke openly, encouraged testing, and supported life-saving treatment programmes that reached our people here in Tonota.
President Mogae’s leadership was defined by discipline, integrity, and a deep commitment to the future of Botswana. He believed in the careful use of resources, in building strong institutions, and in putting the nation first. Let us take inspiration from his example. Let us lead with integrity. Let us serve with humility.
