Meet Johanna Mazibuko: The World’s Oldest Woman In South Africa

South Africa celebrated Johanna Mazibuko’s birthday last week, marking her as the world’s oldest living woman at 128 years old. 

North West Department of Social Development took to Twitter on May 11 and shared a series of photos commemorating the joyous occasion with Mazibuko while gifting her with a birthday sash, numeral balloons, and what appeared to be celebratory desserts. 

“#HappyBirthday #DSDNW3 #DSDCARES There world Oldest living centenarian, Mme Johanna Mazibuko, celebrated her 128th birthday today in Jourbertin, Klerksdorp. She has two children out of 8 still alive,” the government agency tweeted. 

Mazibuko was born in 1894 and lived

through British colonialism, apartheid, and two world wars, according to Metro UK. The centenarian, who currently lives in Jouberton, Klerksdorp, told reporters that she grew up on a maize farm in Ottosdal and was the eldest of 12 children. 

‘We lived so well on the farms. There were no problems,’ she said.

She recalled overcoming a locust infestation on the farm and found a clever way to combat the insects. 

“There were ones we could catch and eat,” she said. “It was like you are eating meat. We would just fry them and eat them like that, just on their own.”

Mazibuko also said she consumed fresh milk and spinach while occasionally eating “modern food.” However, Mazibuko revealed that she misses the simplicities of her childhood. 

While the native of South Africa maintains a sharp memory, she still remembers moments earlier in her life, including her marriage to an older man. 

“‘I was married to an older man. His first wife had died. He was an independent man. He had a horse carriage and cows. I would milk the cows and make butter to sell,” Mazibuko explained. 

She continued, “That man treated me very well and made me forget about my life before him. I did not want for anything.”

Mazibuko had seven children with her husband, Stawana, two of which are still alive. She also has 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

To honor the elderly woman’s remarkable accomplishment, community members have called for Mazibuko to be recognized by the Guinness World Records. 

Village prophet OJ Madikong was one of many who tried to share her story with others. 

“I believe Mazibuko could have long since been put in Guinness book of Records. The whole world would know, but we know that it is never late,” he told News 24. 

“As long as we as people in Africa know that there is such a person, we are happy that there is someone with 128 years, whether they try to hide her or what, but we know there is,” he added. 

Mazibuko shared how she would want to be remembered by her family after passing on. 

“When I die, they must slaughter a cow for me. They must bury me well so that I never bother them.”