MAKONDE - “Son, stay away from unbecoming behaviour like womanizing, drugs and alcohol abuse. Respect yourself and never do anything that can harm your body. Do a lot of exercise and physical work to keep your body in good shape. Remember, water is the only drink for a wise man.”

A prominent elder in Venda, Wilson Vhavenda Ravele (103) told Mirror the secret behind his long and healthy life, since most elders die before they even reach 80. Vhavenda is a title that refers to village elders regarded as advisers and guardians of villagers. Ravele, who stays at Makonde village near Thohoyandou, was born on 11 June 1901.

His voice clearly tells that he is still courageous and ready to face more challenges in life.

Despite his age, Ravele is a common face at community activities where he gives advice to the local villagers. He also walks a distance of 1km from his home to the nearest Lutheran Church every Sunday. Besides being a deeply religious man, Ravele is an acclaimed musician who plays Mbilamutondo, a traditional music instrument similar to the marimba, but its sound is boosted by calabashes.

“Music makes me feel younger. That is why I keep on playing Mbilamutondo. I always feed my soul with music because it relieves stress and keeps me healthy.”

One could easily mistake Ravele’s home for a chief’s place because it is always flocked with tourists and other visitors who enjoy seeing him playing Mbilamutondo.

“I pray to God that he gives me some few more years of life because I believe I still have a lot to offer my community,” said Ravele when concluding our interview.