Honouring the Legacy of His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae, Inaugural Chancellor of Amref International University

On behalf of the Amref Health Africa Group, we extend our deepest condolences to the people and Government of Botswana, and to the family of His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae, former President of the Republic of Botswana and founding Chancellor of Amref International University.

President Mogae was a distinguished African statesman whose leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service left a lasting mark across the continent. A respected economist and global champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS, he dedicated his life to advancing health, development, and dignity for African communities.

We were deeply honoured to have him serve as the inaugural Chancellor of Amref International University from 2019 to 2025. Through his wisdom, vision, and unwavering belief in African-led solutions, he helped shape the University’s mission to strengthen health systems and nurture the next generation of African health leaders.

President Mogae believed in the power of evidence-based learning, community-centred health systems, and collective action to build a healthier and more equitable Africa. His legacy will continue to inspire our work and the many lives he touched across the continent and beyond. He was succeeded by Mrs Tsitsi Masiyiwa, who continues to build on the strong foundation and legacy he helped establish.

At this moment of mourning, we stand in solidarity with the people of Botswana and all who were inspired by his extraordinary leadership and service.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Dr Githinji Gitahi,

Group CEO, Amref Health Africa.