Gogo Elizabeth Setshedi, a sprightly 121-year-old from Slagboom in the North West, has a simple wish: to shake the hand of President Cyril Ramaphosa before she breathes her last.
This remarkable woman, who has lived through a century and a quarter of history, holds a deep respect for the leader of her beloved ANC, a party she has supported throughout her life.
— Aaron Dube (@AronDube) August 27, 2024
"It would be a dream come true if Ramaphosa visited my home, so I can proudly say the leader of this country has graced me with his presence," gogo Elizabeth shared with the Daily Sun. "As I can’t see properly, touching him would be a great moment for me."
Gogo Elizabeth's life has been a testament to resilience and longevity, and she attributes her long life to a healthy diet in her younger years.
— Aaron Dube (@AronDube) August 27, 2024
"I grew up drinking a lot of milk and eating goat meat and morogo," she explained, "but I now drink a lot of soft drinks and make up for it by walking around my yard."
Despite her current fondness for fried chicken, sphatlo and amasi, gogo Elizabeth remains a firm believer in the power of traditional food for a long and healthy life.
DailySun Gogo Elizabeth Setshedi (121) says that people who want to live long should eat traditional food like morogo. She also says that people must not do evil things. Video by Aaron Dube pic.twitter.com/XxZtTXJpsG
— Aaron Dube (@AronDube) August 27, 2024
Beyond her love for her country and its leader, gogo Elizabeth is also a woman of strong convictions and wisdom. She believes that being a Christian has helped her avoid unhealthy habits and live a fulfilling life. Her wisdom extends to the younger generation, particularly young women, whom she encourages to prioritize marriage over cohabitation.
"Women should choose marriage over moving in with boyfriends for money or other possessions because love is more valuable than material possessions," she advises.
Gogo Elizabeth's granddaughter, Phina (36), who cares for her, echoes this sentiment, praising her grandmother's kindness, compassion and ability to connect with people.
DailySun Gogo Elizabeth Setshedi (121) from Slagboom, North West, says that she wants to meet President Cyril Ramaphosa. Video by Aaron Dube pic.twitter.com/mxN8lNlSSl
— Aaron Dube (@AronDube) August 27, 2024
"I would be happy for her to meet the President before she dies. I know it would make her so happy and she'll be at peace," Phina said.
The community of Slagboom also holds gogo Elizabeth in high regard, seeing her as a beacon of wisdom and a pillar of strength. Community leader, Philadelphia Moloto (55), described gogo Elizabeth as a blessing to the community.
"She constantly reminds us to respect our marriages and not cheat on our partners," Philadelphia shared.
