LIMPOPO PREMIER: ‘WE ARE PROUD OF YOU’
The legendary Skeem Saam actress Lydia Mokgokoloshi is being celebrated by the Limpopo province and Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
IOL reports that Dr Ramathuba visited Mokgokoloshi on Tuesday, September 24 to celebrate her 85th birthday, Heritage Day and World Elderly Day.
The premier said: “As the government of Limpopo, we are proud of you. For you to reach this age. It makes us feel lucky and we are learning something from you. A person to live these many years and pass the age of 70 it is difficult these days.”
Ramathuba adds: “We also want to show the youth that it is important to support, love and respect our elderly people while they are still alive.”
The premier reportedly made a second visit to Mokgokoloshi’s home in Botlokwa Village to celebrate her birthday on Friday, September 27.
The legendary actress took a break from Skeem Saam in 2020, where she plays the role of Koko Mantsha.
Sowetan reported in July 2020 that the legendary actress has taken a break from acting after playing Koko Mantsha since the soapie’s inception in 2011.
The educational soapie revealed to the publication that Mokgokoloshi is still part of the show on a recurring basis, although viewers will see less of her on screen.
The soapie’s spokesperson Sumanya Mogola said: “She will still be in and out of the story. She just won’t be shooting as much as she used to. Our shooting schedule gets really hectic at times, and we don’t want to wear her out. She is at a very sensitive age, so she needs as much rest, care and comfort as possible.”
‘SKEEM SAAM’ FANS CELEBRATE ACTRESS’ BIRTHDAY
@ChaleChipangura: “Happy Birthday granny Koko. Wishing you good health. May God Almighty strengthen you always.”
@mduduzihlope: “May God grant strength, don’t stop serving his people.”
@TheReal_Shalate: “Mmago Nkwesheng kera lena Koko Mantcha. Happy 85th birthday Koko
@Range888888: “Re a leboga. Modimo a be le our icons. Much love to Koko.”
@topo_matlhape: “Will always remember her as MmaNkweshêng and her famous ‘Ma ntsatsarapa têna” followed by go tsimola’. What a legend.”