Friends and family gathered at Makonde village on Saturday, 29 October, to pay their last respects to the late Vho-Masindi Manyaga during her funeral service. Vho-Masindi passed away at the ripe age of 81 after a long illness.
Her son, Mr Phillip Tshililo, who is a prolific local mathematics and physical science teacher, described his late mother as a "natural scientist" who could make the best thothotho (alcoholic drink). This skill, he said, she learned all by herself, without any formal training.
Phillip, who is also a well-known reggae musician, told the mourners that, although his mother had dropped out of school in Standard 4, her natural aptitude for scientific matters had far exceeded that of many scientists who had studied at universities. "She brewed the best thothotho, which also attracted people from other villages. That was a science on its own. Our home was always full of people who came to enjoy my mother's unique alcoholic drink. I believe that I inherited my love for science and mathematics from her because she was a natural genius and loved by many."
He said his mother was a true example that single parents can raise disciplined children to become responsible leaders. "Besides brewing and selling thothotho, my mother worked tirelessly in the fields. She also brewed mahafhe (traditional beer) to raise us, always sharing the little she had with her neighbours as well. Life was very tough in those days, and she had to make sure that we have a bright future. She walked very far every day to work in people's fields for a little money to pay for our school fees. She had no time to rest. After working in the fields, she had to go to the mountain to fetch wood to brew mahafhe. I am happy that I am independent today because of her sacrifices. She is my only heroin and a role model whose life should be embodied by many," he said.
During the funeral service, Phillip played his tshitiringo (pennywhistle) as a tribute to his mother, while the mourners sang along to the beautiful melodies of his sweet zwidade (traditional folk songs).