Members of the Khutsong Community Policing Forum (CPF) and other concerned residents made sure that a granny from Khutsong celebrated her 100th birthday in style.

Granny Elizabeth Monica Goitsemang Mangale celebrated her 100th birthday on February 26.

Although she spent her birthday with family and friends, members of the CPF ensured the celebrations were extended. A group of CPF members and some police officers surprised Mangale with a huge cake and other gifts the next day.

They also organised even more gifts, including a shopping outing to Star Superspar in Carletonville on March 2. Several other businesses also helped to make her birthday special.

Several of the visitors and family members had to wipe off tears when Ouma Goitsemang, as she is known to her family, thanked them deeply.

“Although she cannot walk by herself anymore, her mind is still very sharp, and she is very wise,” says her granddaughter, Kamogelo Motshidi, who also looks after her granny.

“What is special about Ouma Goitsemang is that she is a strong believer who is rooted in prayer. She is also a very appreciative person, principled and strong-willed. The family values were learnt from her is care, unity, support and love,” says another relative, Khanyisile Malindi.

Ouma Goitsemang was born at Frederickstad near Potchefstroom to Hendrick Shwai and Mmantiki Mamodikwe Shwai and was the second-born of five siblings.

She spent her childhood on a farm belonging to Gabie Liebenberg, and can still remember that he fought in the Frederickstad War between the Afrikaners and the English.

She never had any formal schooling, but was taught to read and write by her father after he finished his farm work, who was much trusted by his employer and used to be in charge of stock orders and sales of the vegetables. She used to assist with the farm work, but started working as a domestic servant in Potchefstroom in her 20s.

It was here that she met the love of her life, the late Mr Solomon Mangale, who hailed from Welverdiend. Their marriage was blessed with five children, three girls and two boys, who have all passed on. She has 10 surviving grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.