South Africa, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse history, is also home to some of the oldest people in the world. These individuals are not just witnesses to significant historical events and changes in their country, but they continue to be a source of wisdom, inspiration, and living history for the younger generations.
In this article, we will explore the lives of nine of the oldest South Africans, discovering not only the secrets to their longevity but also the rich stories they carry. Each of these remarkable individuals has his or her own unique experience, reflecting the varied tapestry that is South African society.
Oldest People in South Africa
1. Johanna Mazibuko
Johanna Mazibuko, reportedly born in 1894 in the North West province, is claimed by some to be the oldest person in South Africa. Having lived through the turn of two centuries, Johanna’s life spans significant epochs in South African and global history. She attributes her longevity to a life of hard work, eating organic foods, and a steadfast faith. Born during a time when South Africa was under British rule, she witnessed the Union of South Africa’s formation, the apartheid era, and its eventual demise, seeing the country evolve dramatically over her lifetime.
Living in a rural area, she spent much of her life as a farmer, adhering to a lifestyle that has possibly contributed to her incredible age. Despite the advancements in technology and the rapid changes in society, Johanna maintained a simple life, staying close to nature, and relying on the community for support and companionship. Her story is a testament to the timeless values of hard work, community, and simplicity in contributing to a long and fulfilling life.
2. Fredie Blom
Fredie Blom, born in 1904 in the Eastern Cape, lived to the remarkable age of 116. Up until his passing in 2020, he was considered to be one of the oldest men in South Africa. Surviving the Spanish Flu, two World Wars, and the apartheid era, his story is one of resilience and strength. Fredie attributed his longevity to a lifetime of moderation, a tobacco-free life, and a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity. He also emphasized the importance of staying active, working in his garden well into his final years.
Despite witnessing some of the hardest times in South African history, Fredie maintained a sense of humor and a love for life. He lived his life with a kind of gentle defiance, never allowing the weight of his years to burden him. His philosophy was simple: live well, eat well, and stay happy. This approach, coupled with his dedication to a life of physical labor, helped him achieve an incredible lifespan, making his story one of inspiration and awe.
3. Violet Brown
While not a South African by birth, Violet Brown, born in 1900 in Jamaica, spent a significant portion of her life in South Africa, contributing to her community and sharing her wisdom. At 117 years old, she was once listed as the world’s oldest living person. Violet attributed her long life to hard work, faith, and a diet rich in fish, which she believed were the cornerstones of her longevity. Living through both world wars, the Great Depression, and witnessing the technological leaps of the 20th and 21st centuries, Violet’s life is a remarkable journey through history.
Her life in South Africa was marked by her role as a community leader and mentor, where she instilled values of respect, hard work, and faith in younger generations. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new culture and country, her resilience and strength served as a beacon for many, illustrating the universal values that can guide one through a long, fulfilling life.
4. Gertrude Nozizwe Sanqela
Born in 1905, Gertrude Nozizwe Sanqela is considered to be one of South Africa’s oldest women. Living through the apartheid era and seeing the dawn of democracy in her country, Gertrude’s life is a reflection of South Africa’s tumultuous history. She credits her longevity to a life of moderation, staying physically active, and maintaining strong social connections within her community.
Gertrude’s diet, consisting mainly of traditional African foods and plenty of vegetables, alongside her regular physical activity, has played a significant role in her long life.
Moreover, Gertrude’s deep sense of community and her active participation in local events have kept her mind sharp and her spirit youthful. Her life emphasizes the importance of social bonds and community involvement in aging gracefully. Sharing her wisdom and embracing the changes around her, Gertrude’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the power of community.
5. Klaas de Jonge
Klaas de Jonge, born in 1908, is among the revered elders of South Africa, having lived through both world wars, apartheid, and the transition to democracy. His story is unique, focusing on a life dedicated to activism and the fight for justice. Klaas credits his long life to a passion for change, a spirit of never giving up, and maintaining an active mind engaged in societal issues. Even in his older years, Klaas continued to participate in discussions and movements aimed at improving his country.
His lifestyle, combining mental agility with a healthy diet and regular physical activity, underscores the belief that a life of purpose can contribute significantly to longevity. Klaas’s story is a powerful reminder that staying engaged with the world around us can not only add years to our lives but life to our years. His commitment to his values and his country is a testament to the indomitable spirit of South Africa’s elders.
6. Esther Mahlangu
Esther Mahlangu, born in 1935, may not be among the very oldest in South Africa, but her significant contributions to the art world and her vibrant spirit make her an essential inclusion on this list. As a renowned Ndebele artist, Esther’s work has brought South African culture and tradition to the global stage. She attributes her youthful spirit and longevity to a life filled with creativity, a strong sense of identity, and an unending passion for teaching younger generations about their heritage. Esther believes that maintaining an active, creative mind has significant health benefits and contributes to a long life.
Her daily routine involves painting and engaging with the community, fostering a strong connection with her culture and the people around her. This, combined with her positive outlook and zest for life, has not only helped her achieve international acclaim but has also contributed to her longevity.
Esther’s life serves as an inspiring example of how embracing one’s passions and staying active in the community can lead to a fulfilling and long life.
7. Simon Mapella
Simon Mapella, born in 1910, is one of South Africa’s oldest living men. His life story is a testimony to the strength and resilience required to navigate the complexities of the 20th and 21st centuries in South Africa.
Simon credits his longevity to a simple lifestyle, a diet primarily consisting of traditional foods, and a strong connection to his faith. He has lived through significant historical events, including the apartheid era and the era of democracy under Nelson Mandela.
His experiences have imbued him with a profound wisdom and a peaceful approach to life, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in a long life. Even at his advanced age, Simon remains an advocate for peace and unity, demonstrating that a life lived with purpose is a life well-lived. His journey underscores the impact of a positive mindset and a heart centered on community values.
8. Mabel Magada
At the age of 112, Mabel Magada is not just one of the oldest people in South Africa; she is a living repository of cultural history and traditions. Mabel was born in the early 1900s, and she cites a life surrounded by music and dance as central to her longevity. She believes that staying joyous and engaged with the arts has kept her mind and body healthy throughout the years. Mabel’s life reflects the importance of cultural richness and activity in achieving a long and happy life.
Her frequent participation in cultural events and her role as a storyteller in her community have kept her connected and active, emphasizing the significance of community and tradition in aging well. Mabel’s story illustrates that happiness, culture, and active participation in community life are key ingredients in the recipe for longevity.
9. Alfred Kgosi
Alfred Kgosi, born in 1906, stands as a beacon of wisdom and resilience. Living beyond a century, his life is filled with tales of transformation and endurance. He credits his longevity to a life of balance, harmony with nature, and a diet focused on organic produce. Alfred’s journey through South Africa’s challenging history, with its joys and sorrows, paints a picture of a man who values peace and contentment above all.
In his community, he is revered as a mediator and a source of sage advice, often emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with one’s neighbors and environment. His approach to life, focusing on simplicity and inner peace, showcases the wisdom that has guided him through the years. Alfred’s narrative is a powerful lesson on the virtues of balance and living in harmony with the world.
Conclusion
The lives of these remarkable individuals from South Africa offer invaluable insights into the art of living well and aging gracefully. Their stories, diverse in experience but Similar in essence, highlight the importance of simplicity, community, resilience, and purpose.
Whether it’s through the joy of art, the strength of activism, the depth of cultural heritage, or the peace of nature, each of these elders provides guidance on achieving a long, fulfilling life. As South Africa continues to evolve, the legacy of its oldest citizens will remain, serving as beacons of wisdom, endurance, and the invaluable lessons they have imparted on how to live life to its fullest.
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