Moffat Mungazi
Sharon Chigeza
A SOCCER-LOVING nun from Brazil, Sister Inah Canabarro, is believed to have become the world’s oldest living person at nearly 117 following the recent death of Ms Tomiko Itooka, Japanese woman who was the world’s oldest person according to Guinness World Records.
Ms Itooka died on December 29, 2024 at the age of 116.
This could arguably be closely followed by a living heroine from the undulating hills of Manica Bridge in Mutasa District.
In a cosy home filled with laughter and the scent of home-cooked meals, Mrs Elizabeth Raposo, a remarkable supercentenarian grandmother, continues to defy the odds.
Born as the second child in a family of five, she is the only surviving sibling, witnessing the world evolve over more than a century.
Her official date of birth dates back to May 1925, making her 99-years-old, turning 100 this year.
However, given the illiteracy back in the day, this date is believed to have been an estimate, given that her eldest daughter in now 93-years-old, leaving an age difference of only seven years from her official age.
Simple mathematics between the age of her children places the supercentenarian at an estimate 112 years, give or take.
Despite her advanced age, Mrs Raposo remains sharp-witted, retaining most of her faculties. She can recite the names of all her children and grandchildren with ease.
Her longevity is a source of fascination for her family and community.
When asked about her secret to a long and healthy life, she smiles and attributes it largely to her diet.
“I always made sure to eat what I grew,” she shares, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia.
Her two daughters, Edith (76) and Elinah (75), fondly recall their mother’s prowess as a farmer.
Mrs Raposo used to fill her granary with an impressive assortment of crops, including, maize, sorghum, pumpkins, traditional vegetables such as nyevhe, blackjack, and pumpkin leaves, staples that formed the backbone of her diet. “Mum was quite the farmer,” Edith reminisces.
“She worked hard to ensure we had everything we needed, straight from the land.”
Their father, who worked in a hotel in Bulawayo, would occasionally bring home Western treats like sausages and marmalade, which quickly became Mrs Raposo’s favourite indulgences.
“Those were the special treats,” Elinah adds, laughing as she recalls the delight on her mother’s face when these goodies arrived.
While Mrs Raposo has been slightly affected by dementia, she often takes time to reminisce about her life, particularly the vibrant days of the 1940s.
“Those were tough times, but we had each other,” she said, her voice tinged with gratitude.
“I am thankful for the love and support from my family, especially during difficult days.”
A devout Anglican Church member, Mrs Raposo attributes her long life to her faith in God.
“My faith is my strength,” she declared, her voice steady.
Elinah mentions that one of their mother’s favourite hymns is “MuKristu Usaneta,” a tune that resonates deeply with Mrs Raposo’s enduring spirit.
This faith has guided her through the trials and tribulations she has faced over the years, including the loss of loved ones.
Mrs Raposo’s family tree is vast and vibrant. She gave birth to 10 children—five boys and five girls—but only four of them are still alive today.
Her legacy continues through her remarkable descendants of 43 grandchildren, 110 great-grandchildren, 68 great-great-grandchildren, and three great-great-great-grandchildren.
However, Mrs Raposo’s life has not been solely defined by joy.
She has been a vocal advocate against Gender-Based Violence, often clashing with her son-in-law over the abuse he inflicted upon her daughter.
“I would not stand by and let it happen,” she asserts, her voice firm and resolute.
“Every woman deserves respect and love, and to date, we have learnt to respect and appreciate each other in our differences. My son-in-law later realised his mistakes and is now a very loving and caring husband, father and grandfather to his family.”
This strong stance reflects the values she instilled in her children and continues to advocate for, even in her old age.
As the years have passed, Mrs Raposo has witnessed significant changes in society, culture, and technology. Yet, her core values have remained steadfast.
“Family is everything. We must take care of one another,” she emphasised.
Her daughters, Edith and Elinah, often gather around their mother, listening intently as she shares stories from her past.
They cherish these moments, knowing they are preserving the family history through her memories.
“Every story she tells us is a lesson. She has wisdom that comes from living through so much,” Edith noted.
Mrs Raposo who is now being taken care of by her daughter, Elinah, said she has had enough of travelling in her lifetime, and is content staying with her son-in-law and grandchildren in the high density suburb of Dangamvura.
Even at 112, she enjoys the company of her loved ones, engaging in conversations that bridge generations.
“I love being surrounded by my family,” she said, her face lighting up at the thought.
“They bring me joy.” — New Ziana
