Thousands of people, including foreign dignitaries, yesterday gave a hero's farewell to Botswana's third president, Festus Mogae, during a memorial service in Gaborone.

Former Mozambican president Joaquim Chissano was among the speakers at a memorial service.

Chissano described Mogae as an indicator of peace, prudence, humility, and vision for the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

"To speak of Festus Mogae is to speak of a rare intelligence placed at the service of ethics. When I recall when we were presidents in our respective countries, I remember, above all, his clarity of thought. Mogae was not a man of half-words but was a man of bold principles. I vividly recall our discussions in SADC in a period when our region sought to consolidate peace and economic growth; Festus' voice was a barometer of prudence and good governance.

Former President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi, in his tribute said, "As we mourn his passing, we must reflect upon his enduring legacy. The leaders of today and those of generations to come walk a path meticulously cleared by his leadership. His Excellency Dr Mogae was a statesman of exemplary character whose distinguished life and career stand as a testament to the virtues of integrity and service in the public service."

Thousands of Batswana walked through the parliament buildings in Gaborone to pay their last respects to the late leader, who died at his home last Friday at the age of 86.

He will be buried on Saturday in Gaborone.