At the ripe old age of 101, Gogo Tshinakaho Johannah Murongwana Tshabuse is still an amazing figure at Golgotha in Thohoyandou.

The gogo can still dance the energetic Tshivenda traditional Malende dance - something that is done by those with strength. She is still very active and can still do most of the chores done by young people.
At the weekend, her family gathered together to celebrate her many glorious years of life. A lavish birthday party, which was attended by the who is who in Thohoyandou, was held on Saturday at the Thohoyandou Indoor Centre hall.

Speakers took turns in praising the gogo for the good work she has done for the family and her community. Her daughter, Esther Mushaathama, the only surviving out of five children, is a well-known businesswoman. When it was time for gifts, the daughter surprised all when, instead of giving her an expensive gift, she handed over a Bible to her.

“We could have given her other luxuries of life, but my mother loves God in such a way that I felt the Bible would be the most appropriate gift for her. She moulded us using the Bible as a yardstick to a prosperous life. We would otherwise not be what we are today, if it were not of her strong belief in God,” she added.Even her cake was unique in that it resembled a Bible.

One of the gogo’s grandchildren, Mr Mike Mushaathama, said the gogo had had a huge impact on his life. “She was always strict and encouraged us to do good things in life. We are grateful that God spared her for us for such a long time and that we continue to learn good things from her,” he said.
“Besides the foods and exercises that could make one to live long, there is one secret to a longer life. Obey God’s rules, respect others and God will reward you handsomely,” she said.