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Gogo Phophi Sidebi is surounded by her children during her birthday celebration. From left to right are: Mr Calvin Sidebi, Gogo Phophi, Ms Tshinakaho Ramutshila and Granny Sidebi.

100 year old gogo still going strong

 

Residents, family members and relatives joined Gogo Phophi Sidebi to celebrate her 100th birthday at a party held at Tshiozwi on Saturday.

According to one of her children, Mr Calvin Sidebi, they organised the party just to please their mother. "It was right to organise a party for her, because she is where most people will never be. It is good to pay tribute to a person while he or she is still alive, rather than to buy expensive things when he or she has died. We love our mother as she loves us too," said Sidebi.

The gogo walks with the aid of a walking stick, but she is still strong and hopes to celebrate many more birthdays. Although her eyesight is deteriorating, her hearing is still good, and her razor-sharp mind keep her days enjoyable.

Gogo Sidebi says the secret of her long life is eating healthy food and listening to the elders. "I have enjoyed fruit and vegetables throughout my life," she says. "We used to travel for long distances on foot because there were no cars," said Sidebi.

“The elders spent most of their time tilling the land and young boys and girls like us were responsible for looking after the goats and cows," she says.

"I would like more generations to know about our times, and I believe that I will still live for many years to come. Respect your elders and preserve your culture. Eat healthy food and distance yourself from alcohol,” she said.

 

 

Date:19 August 2019

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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