Online Reporter
Nomalisa Gumpo, Zimpapers Writer
A FORMER pupil of the late former President, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, Mrs Veronica Letjani Moyo-Dube, celebrated her 100th birthday yesterday, with relatives revelling in her discipline, faith and generosity.
They noted that over the years she has become a living example of love across generations.
Born on 12 May 1925, Mrs Dube was a pupil at Empandeni Mission in Mangwe District, Matabeleland South Province, during the time when former President Mugabe was a teacher at the Catholic-run school.
She revealed that she also studied alongside Mrs Joanna Nkomo nee-Fuyana, wife of the late Vice-President, Joshua Nkomo.
Yesterday, her family, friends, church members and neighbours gathered to celebrate her centenary in thanksgiving, grateful that she is still alive to witness the love and respect from the generations she has shaped.
Mrs Veronica Letjani (Moyo) Dube’s 100th year celebrations at her house in Entumbane suburb in Bulawayo yesterday
Her daughter, Mrs Emah Zikhali, described her as a hard-working mother, who valued discipline, faith and tradition. She recalled growing up under strict rules, such as waking up before 6am and compulsory farming during the rainy season.
“It is an honour for us as her children to celebrate our mother while she is still alive and for her to witness us celebrating her life,” she said.
Mrs Zikhali added that their mother became a great example to all generations, passing her teachings even to their grandchildren. She was also a reputed small-scale farmer at the family’s homestead at Bango Village, Mangwe District.
Her youngest son, Mr John Bango, said the centenary celebrations were a joyous occasion for the family and community. He recalled how going to the fields was non-negotiable, teaching them the value of hard work.
“We spent most of our time in the fields. She wouldn’t allow us to sleep past sunrise during farming season. She was a disciplinarian — back in the day, you knew you would be beaten if rules were not followed,” he said.
Her great-grandson, Mr Leslie Dube, fondly remembered visiting her in the village, where she was full of energy, often taking children on long walks to the fields. She also taught them the craft of weaving mats and baskets, which she freely gave away to visitors.
“We struggled to keep up with her energy. Whenever we had visitors, she would always give away her mats or baskets for free, which was amazing to witness since she spent almost the whole day weaving just to give them away,” he said.
Her eldest daughter, Ms Maria Bango, said their mother was the family’s breadwinner in her youth and insisted on church attendance — values that shaped the family well into adulthood.
“She moulded us well and taught us never to look down on anyone,” she said.
Her grandson, Mr Butholezwe Dube Bango, said her long life has been anchored on principles that have guided generations. He recalled how she remained true to her marriage vows after her husband passed away and taught the family patience, modesty and firmness.
“She has been a model of strength and discipline, and we draw inspiration from her and all her youthful days that she always told us about,” he said.
Despite her age, Mrs Dube remains active, keeping herself busy weaving mats and baskets, which she considers her exercise. She credits her strength to traditional food and simple living.
“Eating traditional food and seeing my children celebrate me keeps me strong. I am happy and I wish them a long life too,” she said.
Mrs Dube, who married in 1947 and was blessed with six children — three boys and three girls — now has three surviving children: a son and two daughters. She is also blessed with 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.
