GOGO Letuki Lydia Melupe, aged 91, is the true epitome of self-sufficiency.
She has never bought vegetables from any shop.
Gogo Lydia, a skilled gardener from Lejwaneng Village, Tsheseng, QwaQwa in the Free State, has transformed her yard into a flourishing agricultural space, providing a reliable source of nutrition for her kids and grandchildren.
Despite her age, she remains independent, tending to her garden through planting, watering, and harvesting without any support.
Her passion for vegetable farming and years of expertise have allowed her to cultivate a wide variety of crops, including spinach, pumpkin, green beans, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, beetroot, garlic, and onion.
"I've never relied on shops for vegetables. My hands have always provided. I've cultivated my entire yard into a productive garden, and agriculture is a passion that brings me joy," said gogo Lydia.
"The whole community is well aware of my capabilities, and I'm proud to say I only buy meat. My spacious yard allows me to grow an abundance of vegetables to ensure a steady supply for my needs."
Her husband, Mkhulu Mohapi Jappie Melupe, passed away during the harrowing apartheid era, leaving her to shoulder the responsibility of raising their 12 kids alone.
Tragically, she lost seven of them and is left with only five.
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Unfortunately, gogo's once-thriving garden suffered severe damage due to horses and cows, abruptly halting her gardening efforts.
"I'm calling on a Good Samaritan to assist me with fencing or devil fork material to protect my garden. My children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are now grown, and I'm willing to support disadvantaged families in my village," she said.
Lydia's granddaughter Mathapelo Khumalo highlighted the devastation caused by livestock encroaching in the garden.
She also shared an upsetting 2024 incident when gogo was hospitalised after discovering her crops were destroyed.
"We learned that gogo has high-blood pressure and diabetes after that incident. She has been praying for someone to fence the yard to protect her garden," said Mathapelo.
A devout and God-fearing woman, gogo Lydia actively participates in church services at Tyrannus Church.
She considers herself a hardworking individual and refuses to let setbacks discourage her.
"My agricultural skill is evidence of my dedication, and I have a proven track record of successfully growing vegetables."
In the coming weeks, Daily Sun will shine the light on incredible elders SunReaders nominated for our Gogo and Mkhulu of the Year Competition.
The two winners, who stand a chance to share R5 000 and amazing prizes, will be awarded in July 2025.
They will celebrate their victory with the Daily Sun team during a special Mandela Day event.
These are the inspiring men and women who have touched lives, shared wisdom and stood as pillars of strength in their communities.
