GOGO Mjaji Vhukeya was overjoyed when she got a special surprise for her 104th birthday on Saturday, 9 July.
Her family and staff members, led by their boss Alex Muntshu, of the SuperSpar at Thulamahashe Shopping Centre presented her with a giant cake and groceries.
The gogo from Thulamahashe, near Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga, danced and sang when she received her gifts.
Alex said: “We are honouring her and giving her this little gift of groceries and a cake for her to enjoy.
“Gogo, you are a treasure to this kasi. It’s not easy reaching this age. God preserved you with a purpose,” said Alex when handing over the gifts.
The gogo’s sister-in-law Muhlava Marimi (94) who is partially blind, said she was grateful to still have her.
“For so many years, she and I have been living in the house of the Lord. We are God-fearing people. We believe that may be the reason we are blessed with so many years.”
“You are an encyclopedia, a good historian with sharp memories. You are still alive because you looked after yourself. We ensured that no one stresses you or asks for your pension money,” he said.
Her first-born child Mhloti Mdhluli, who will be turning 81 in November, said he was one of her three surviving children.
“God blessed her with 24 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren” She taught us love, respect and to live in harmony,” said Mhloti.
Gogo Mjaji said: “If you want to live for many years, fear God and respect others.”
and persevere. I love milk and morogo and it keeps me healthy,” she said.
