President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has extended condolences to Botswana’s President Duma Boko, the people of Botswana, and the family on the death of former President Festus Mogae, who died at the age of 86.

Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah said Mogae was a distinguished statesman, a principled leader, and a committed Pan-Africanist whose contributions to Botswana, the SADC region, and the African continent will be remembered with great respect and admiration.

The former president played an important role in deepening the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between Namibia and Botswana.

His calm leadership, wisdom, humility, and commitment to good governance earned him admiration far beyond the borders of Botswana, she said.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah recalled the spirit of solidarity and mutual respect that defined relations between the two countries during his presidency, as the two nations worked together through SADC to advance regional integration, development, and prosperity for their peoples.

"Namibia joins Botswana in mourning the loss," she said, "standing in solidarity with the people of Botswana during this difficult period of grief and remembrance."