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Gogo Sibanda was born in 1909 in Filabusi, Matabeleland South, and keeps on defying all odds as she has lived through two World Wars and the Second Chimurenga.
She went to Nhlamba 2 Primary School in Filabusi and then proceeded to Wanezi Mission for post-Standard Six education.
At 103 she can no longer walk but still has her vision and talks quite clearly.
In an interview Gogo Sibanda said during the old days education for girls was quite difficult.
“During those days black people were not allowed to proceed to higher levels but allowed to teach their fellow colleagues. I did not do well in my Post-Standard Six education so I was left with no choice but to look for work,” said Gogo Sibanda.
She said afterwards she was employed as a maid by a Mr Movern looking after his children in Glass Block, Filabusi, up until she got married.
Gogo Sibanda said she used to be good at knitting and that kept her busy while growing up.
“Even though I did not do well in my education, I am glad I was gifted in knitting which kept me busy most of the time,” said Gogo Sibanda.
She said she had 10 children but only six are now late. She also has more than 32 great grandchildren.
Asked what made her live this long she said upholding moral values, eating healthy and respecting elders were key to longevity.
“You have to uphold moral values, live true to your roots, eat healthy and hygienic food and respect elders. In that way you may be guaranteed of living long as the Bible also says respect your mother and father so that your days may be prolonged,” she said.
Gogo Sibanda said during the Second Chimurenga they were relocated to Lupane from Filabusi by the settler regime but still participated in the war through cooking for the guerillas.
Her advice to the youth is to be wary of diseases, respecting one another especially elders, eating healthy and living according to the Bible.
She said she no longer eats a lot but enjoys traditional food.
Online Reporter