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Gibson Mhaka
LONGEVITY is a gift, and if you ask Khulu Chigumbu Sibanda, who turned 100 years old last week what the most important factor for a long life is, he will tell you that it’s not some magic potion or hidden spring water.
It’s all about what you put on your plate. Khulu Chigumbu Sibanda from Mateta 2 Village under Chief Sai in Gokwe, Midlands Province emphasises avoiding junk food and sticking to traditional meals.
Though he recently celebrated his 100th birthday, his strength remains impressive, though not quite that of a hyperactive toddler. His communication is clear and his thoughts flow chronologically.
“We eat to live long and healthy lives,” Khulu Sibanda said eloquently. “However, spending a lot of money on unhealthy junk food defeats that very purpose. It’s unfortunate that our children nowadays are much concerned with junk foods that pose risks to their health”.
He added: “The key to a long life lies in moderation. Overindulging, whether in food or drink, can take a toll on your health in the long run.”
According to research, eating junk food regularly can lead to different disorders and cause chronic ailments such as cancer, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases and other dangerous conditions.
A grandfather with more than 30 grandchildren, Khulu Sibanda thanked God for blessing him with a century of life. He said while most people his age have finished their race, he remains active, thanks solely to his faith, healthy lifestyle and strong morals.
He expressed pride in having instilled strong moral values in his children, who he believes are passing them on to the next generation.
“I have been blessed with 13 children from four wives, some of whom I have sadly outlived. I instilled strong moral values in them and I believe they are doing the same for their children,” he said.
Khulu Sibanda, a retired driver, recalls one of his life’s most challenging moments. While transporting his sick mother to hospital, they were involved in a car accident. Fortunately, everyone survived, but he sustained a backache that troubles him to this day.
His surviving wife, Shupikai Ndlovu (44), who was the fourth in line, with whom he has four children, described him as a loving and caring husband.
“What I loved most about him was that he was a loving, caring and incredibly respectful husband.
As a farmer, he not only taught me a lot about agriculture, but also embodied kindness by never harming a living thing. He showed me the true meaning of respect in a marriage, where partners value each other,” she said.
The elated Shupikai said Khulu Sibanda is a kind man who does not raise his hands on her.
“I am happily in love with him. I can tell you right now that I don’t regret the decision that I took to be with my old man. He is old enough to be my grandfather, but I don’t care because he makes me happy,” she said.
Khulu Sibanda said Shupikai filled his life with a vibrant joy that transcended age.
“I’m deeply in love with this woman and I’m constantly showing her how much she means to me.
Our intimacy is something special that I’ll keep private. What really attracts me to her goes beyond physicality,” he said.
Online Reporter