President Salva Kiir greets late former Botswana president and former R-JMEC Chairperson Festus Mogae during a past meeting on South Sudan’s peace process – courtesy photo.

President Salva Kiir has mourned former Botswana President Festus Mogae as a steadfast friend of South Sudan in a condolence message issued on Thursday.

Festus Mogae, who died at the age of 86 on Friday last week, served as a peace mediator and guarantor for South Sudan from 2015 to 2018.

In the message, President Kiir conveyed heartfelt sympathies to Mogae’s family, the Government, and the people of Botswana following the passing of the respected African statesman.

Kiir praised the late Mogae as “one of Africa’s greatest sons” and commended his role in supporting South Sudan’s peace efforts during one of the country’s most difficult periods.

“President Mogae will be remembered by the people of South Sudan for supporting their aspirations for a peaceful country,” Kiir said.

Mogae served as Chairperson of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (JMEC) from November 2015 to September 2018, where he oversaw the implementation of the Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (ARCSS).

President Kiir credited Mogae with dedicating his energy and leadership to advancing peace and stability in the country.

Kiir also hailed Mogae’s legacy in Botswana, saying his administration was marked by economic discipline, democratic governance, and political stability.

“As Botswana mourns this remarkable leader, his legacy will never be forgotten,” the statement added.

Festus Mogae, who served as Botswana’s president from 1998 to 2008, was widely respected across Africa for his leadership and commitment to good governance.