Botswana's government has announced the death of former president Festus Mogae at the age of 86. Mogae, an Oxford-educated economist, led the diamond-rich southern African nation for a decade.
A democrat considered the architect of the country's economic rise, Mogae won widespread praise for his commitment to good governance during his ten years in office.
He was also a pioneer in the fight against HIV/AIDS. To help eradicate the epidemic, Mogae embraced a flagship American aid program, earning acclaim for his leadership in addressing the crisis.
In honor of the former leader, the government has declared three days of national mourning.