Exercise and eat healthy food, says Vho Takalani after 100th birthday

On 1 January 1924, a remarkable 100 years ago, Vho Tshifaro Adziambei Takalani was born into a well-respected family in the village of Khubvi Harandima, located outside Thohoyandou. To commemorate this significant milestone, a celebration was held for her at the Mukula chief’s kraal (musanda) on Saturday, 30 December. Family and friends gathered to join her in marking this momentous occasion.

Granny Takalani, a devoted member of the Dutch Reformed Church in her home village of Mukula, is the daughter of the late Mr Mulangaphuma George Netshishivhe and Ms Nyaphophi Magadze. She was married to the late traditional leader, Vhamusanda Ramushasha Takalani, succeeded by her son, the late Vhamusanda Mbangiseni Takalani. The current traditional leader of Mukula village, Vhamusanda Mpfuneni Takalani, is the great-grandson of this centenarian.

Khotsimunene Rudzani Takalani mentioned that the 100-year celebration had been organised by Granny Takalani's children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and cousins to honour and show appreciation for her role as mother of mothers. They celebrated the contributions she has made to her community over the years. Khotsimunene Takalani highlighted Granny Takalani's teachings about respect for elders and one another, the importance of love and cleanliness, and the encouragement to prioritise God and education for a brighter future.

Granny Takalani maintains a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and following traditional eating habits. She encourages young mothers to feed their children traditional foods such as mashonzha and green vegetables, advocating against alcohol abuse, especially among teenagers. She actively participates in cultural activities, such as the tshigombela cultural dance, as part of her daily exercise routine.

The celebration was honoured by various royal families, including the Nethengwe, Tshikonelo (Mphaphuli), Rambuda, Rathogwa, Shavhani, and Themeli families, aiming to strengthen their relationships. Thovhele Vudzidzhena Nethengwe, who also spoke during the celebration, extended birthday wishes and blessings to Granny Takalani.

Date:14 January 2024

By: Silas Nduvheni

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