The Office of the late Former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae held a heartfelt farewell session today as preparations continue for its official closure, bringing together the team that faithfully served one of Botswana’s most respected statesmen. The gathering marked an important moment of reflection, gratitude and recognition for the individuals who worked behind the scenes to support the former President throughout his post-presidential years. Organized by the Senior Private Secretary to the late Former President, Rhee Hetanang, the event celebrated the dedication, professionalism and commitment of every member of the Office. It also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions made by staff members whose work helped preserve and advance the legacy of the late leader. The farewell served as a fitting tribute to a team that played an important role in supporting public service beyond the presidency.
The farewell session brought together the entire team that served within the Office of the Former President, including administrative personnel, support staff and members of the Close Protection Unit. Although each department carried different responsibilities, all worked toward the common goal of ensuring the Office operated efficiently and continued serving the public with professionalism. Administrative staff managed the daily operations that allowed the Office to function effectively, while support personnel ensured that essential services were delivered smoothly. Members of the Close Protection Unit carried the important responsibility of safeguarding the former President throughout his engagements and official activities. The event recognized that every role, regardless of its nature, contributed meaningfully to the success and effectiveness of the Office.
Addressing the gathering, Rhee Hetanang expressed his sincere appreciation to every member of the team for their unwavering professionalism, loyalty and commitment throughout their years of service. He acknowledged that the success of the Office was made possible through the dedication and teamwork demonstrated by individuals who consistently carried out their responsibilities with integrity. Hetanang praised the staff for maintaining high standards of public service while supporting the important work undertaken by the late Former President. His remarks reflected a deep appreciation for the collective effort that enabled the Office to fulfill its responsibilities effectively over the years. He emphasized that their commitment had helped uphold the dignity and reputation associated with the Office of a former Head of State.
Hetanang also commended staff members for the important role they played in preserving and advancing the work and legacy of His Excellency Festus Gontebanye Mogae. While the former President remained the public face of the Office, its continued effectiveness depended greatly on the professionalism and dedication of those working behind the scenes. Their efforts ensured that official engagements, correspondence, administrative functions and public interactions were managed efficiently and respectfully. By providing consistent support, the team helped maintain the values and standards that characterized Mogae’s distinguished career in public service. Their contributions formed an important part of the enduring legacy associated with one of Botswana’s most respected national leaders.
During his address, Hetanang encouraged staff members to carry forward the values, experience and spirit of public service they had developed while serving in the Office. He reminded them that the knowledge and professional skills gained throughout their service would continue to benefit them in future careers and responsibilities. The principles of integrity, accountability, discipline and dedication that guided their work remain valuable qualities in every area of public administration and community service. His message encouraged employees to view the closure of the Office not as the end of their journey but as the beginning of new opportunities to continue serving Botswana in different capacities. The experience gained during their years of service provides a strong foundation for future leadership and professional growth.
The farewell session also created an opportunity for colleagues to reflect on their shared experiences and the collective achievements realized during their time together. Years of working closely as a team often create strong professional relationships built on mutual respect, cooperation and shared purpose. Participants were able to look back on important milestones, memorable events and the many challenges they successfully navigated together. Such moments of reflection allow individuals to appreciate the significance of their contributions while recognizing the impact of teamwork in achieving common goals. The gathering reinforced the importance of unity and collaboration in delivering effective public service.
The Office of the Former President played an important role in supporting the continued engagement and public service activities of the late Festus Mogae following the completion of his presidential term. Through its work, the Office contributed to preserving his legacy while facilitating engagements that continued to benefit Botswana and the broader international community. Administrative support, logistical planning and professional coordination enabled the former President to remain actively involved in matters of national and global importance. The dedication of the Office’s staff ensured that these responsibilities were carried out efficiently and with the highest standards of professionalism. Their work helped maintain the influence and dignity associated with the Office long after Mogae left the presidency.
An especially meaningful part of the farewell ceremony was the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation to every member of staff. Rhee Hetanang presented the certificates in recognition of the valuable service, commitment and professionalism demonstrated by each individual during their time with the Office. Such recognition serves not only as a token of appreciation but also as a lasting reminder of the important role each employee played in supporting the late Former President. Acknowledging individual contributions reinforces the value of dedication and inspires continued excellence in future professional endeavors. The certificates symbolize the gratitude extended to a team whose collective efforts made a lasting difference.
The closure of the Office marks the end of an important chapter while preserving the legacy of service associated with the late Festus Gontebanye Mogae. Although the Office will officially close, the values it represented and the work accomplished by its dedicated staff will continue to be remembered. The professionalism displayed by the team serves as an example of the commitment required to support national leadership with integrity and excellence. The relationships built, lessons learned and experiences gained will remain valuable long after the Office concludes its operations. These contributions form part of the broader history of public service in Botswana.
The farewell session concluded with a spirit of gratitude, reflection and appreciation for the years of dedicated service provided by every member of the Office of the late Former President Festus Mogae. Rhee Hetanang’s recognition of the team’s professionalism, loyalty and commitment highlighted the essential role they played in advancing the work and legacy of one of Botswana’s distinguished statesmen. As the Office prepares for its official closure, its achievements and the dedication of its staff remain an enduring part of the nation’s public service history. The Certificates of Appreciation presented during the ceremony stand as lasting symbols of gratitude for years of faithful service. While the Office may close its doors, the legacy of excellence, integrity and commitment established by its team will continue to inspire future generations of public servants.
