Botswana's former head of state Festus Mogae has died at the age of 86, President Duma Boko has announced. Today Botswana mourns a distinguished statesman and patriot whose life was devoted to the service of his country, Boko announced, adding that Mogae died early on Friday. ALSO READ: Things to know about Botswana as Kagame visits Gaborone The former president, who led Botswana from 1998 to 2008, had been in ill health for some time. He was receiving medical care at a hospital in the capital, Gaborone. Mogae served as the country's third president. As a nation, we grieve the loss of a remarkable servant leader of the people whose commitment to Botswana remained unwavering throughout his life, Boko said in an address to the nation on Friday. His legacy of service and leadership will forever be remembered. Boko declared three days of national mourning, during which flags will fly at half-mast in honour of the late leader. Mogae is credited with steering Botswana's response to the HIV/Aids epidemic.
