It is with profound sadness that I note the passing of H.E. Dr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae, former President of the Republic of Botswana, a giant of African leadership whose life was a testament to integrity, service, and vision.

During my Presidency, Dr. Mogae and I forged a strong collegial bond while he served as Head of the Africa Bureau of the International Monetary Fund. His wisdom was invaluable to Liberia as we undertook the enormous task of rebuilding our country’s infrastructure, financial systems, and institutions in the pursuit of lasting independence and strength. He gave generously his counsel, and I am deeply grateful for his guidance during that critical season in our nation’s history.

Beyond his distinguished service to Botswana, Dr. Mogae stood as a beacon of exemplary governance across the African continent. He was a recipient of the 2008 Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, one of Africa’s most prestigious honors, and later served as Chair of the Ibrahim Prize Committee at the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, dedicating himself to upholding the same standard of principled leadership for which he was recognized.

To his family and to the people of Botswana, I offer my deepest condolences. Africa has lost a statesman of rare distinction, and the world is diminished by his absence. May his legacy continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.

To our Amujae leaders in Botswana, I extend a special word of solidarity and comfort. H.E. Dr. Mogae embodied the very values of principled, people-centered leadership that we seek to cultivate in the next generation of African women leaders. His life and legacy are a living curriculum. May his example continue to guide and inspire your journeys in service.

Rest well, Mr. President, you have more than earned your wings.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Former President, Republic of Liberia

Founder, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development