Chapter 7: A Demonstration of Exceptional Leadership Amidst the HIV/AIDS Scourge – Chronicling the Journey of Resilience, Courage and Hope of the Former President of Botswana, Festus Gontebanye Mogae from 1998 to 2008

Through this chapter, readers are ferried through the Presidency of Festus Gontebanye Mogae, the President of Botswana from 1998- 2008. His Presidency occurred during the debilitating period of the HIV/AIDS scourge, the African blood diamonds brandishing label by the developed world and the drought that menacingly swept through Botswana leaving the nation distraught and poverty stricken. Despite all the hurdles and volcanoes enveloping his presidency, Mogae shouldered the leadership responsibility squarely and emerged victorious through the utilization of effective communication channels, the implementation of versatile leadership skills that valued collaborative partnerships and consultation, and the practicing of good corporate governance principles that became the hallmarks of integrity and ethical standards that shaped the character of his leadership. More importantly, Mogae embarked on the war against the HIV/AIDS scourge with resilience, hope and positivism that were equally unparalleled in outcome and success. Through an analysis of documents, a systematic review of critical events that shaped his presidency is described.