TSHINO - Muthelo Mulaudzi-Netsianda celebrated her 101st year in style, as her grandchildren organized her a colourful birthday party. The party was held at Ha-Ramukhuba, Vuwani, on Saturday afternoon.

Netsianda was born in Luvhola near Makhado on 10 October 1902 and was married into the Netsianda Royal Family in Sinthumule. She was blessed with five children, Tshimangadzo (81), Mbulaheni (73), Madzhoni (63), Alilali (51) and Matamela (49).

One of the grandsons of Netsianda, Maano Muleya (48) who organised the party, told Mirror the aim of the party was to show Netsianda that they really love her. "We sat down and agreed to organise a party for her, because this is the right thing to show true love to her," he said.

He added that they are still planning to tour the Kruger National Park in the forthcoming festive season to celebrate with her. "We are what we are today because of her timeous guidance. This is another way of thanking her," he added.

Netsianda told Mirror that she feels very happy after she celebrated her birthday in style. She said she was used to hearing that people celebrate birthdays, and to her it was just a story. "Today I am a very happy person as my grandchildren showed me that they really and truly love me," she said. It is not the first time that the family throw a party for their loved ones, as last year they celebrated the 100th birthday of Aaron Matshavha.

When asked what her secret is for living longer, she said it is because she was a person in her youth who abstained from many things and she was well-mannered. "What makes our youth today not live longer is because they don't refrain from evil deeds. For example, today there is HIV/Aids, which is a killer disease and a great threat to the community. During my days there were no such things and it was not proper to go out with a boy unless you're married. Discipline contributed a lot to my life. I did not even engage in romantic relationships or spend my time drinking liquor," she said.

She added that even God says people must respect their parents and you will live longer in the land that God provided. "I thank God for caring for me and wish He would make me live even longer than this. My advice to the youth out there: avoid evil things, and you will live longer," she said.

Netsianda did not attended school during her heyday. The family has five generations, as she has 42 grandchildren, 75 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren. Lots of presents poured in during the day.