Gogo honored by community on 100th birthday
Reaching your 100-year milestone is something to celebrate and Gogo Delase Twala was treated to an elaborate celebration involving the whole community last Friday.
MIDDELPLAAS – The special festivities were initiated by Gogo Nora Mhlanga, who wrote a letter to Malelane SUPERSPAR, requesting its help in making Gogo Twala’s day special.
The SUPERSPAR joined Twala’s friends and family in partnership with the Department of Social Development, during a special service to acknowledge Twala’s conquest in life. The event was held at the local hall.
Some of the elderly women celebrated with Twala by dancing and singing at the start of the event, and the department kept everyone moving with some routine exercises.
Despite being a 100-year-old, Twala is still capable of following conversations and responding, and looks younger than one would expect. To get around she makes use of two crutches for support, but is only capable of walking short distances.
She is the mother of 12 children, all from her customary marriage to the late Mr Mboshwa Metiso, and has 30 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
Some of Twala’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were also present to congratulate their matriarch.
Being unable to care for herself any longer, Twala resides with her sister-in-law, Ms Bhelina Solane.
Speaking on behalf of Twala’s children, Mr Phillip Metiso, said they felt very privileged to still have a mother. “It is absolutely a blessing to witness her 100th birthday. She is and continues to be a blessing to everyone in the family. We all love her for her wisdom and kind soul, and we thank the Lord Almighty that she has made it this far in life. We cannot say there has been anything special that we have been feeding her. It has only been the will of God and his grace. Were it not for that we would be bid farewell to her sometime back.”
SUPERSPAR co-owner Mr Lex Hollmann, said they were honoured to be part of such an occasion. “Among the many things which Malelane SUPERSPAR is busy with in various communities, this is one of the most special ones. There is nothing more precious than life and we are happy to see Gogo Twala celebrating hers at such an age,” Hollmann said.
He presented Twala with her special birthday cake and present and also gave some of the local elders gift packs.
