The beloved Skeem Saam actress, Lydia Mokgokoloshi, recently celebrated a significant milestone—her 85th birthday. Known for her iconic role as Koko Mantsha on the popular South African drama, Mokgokoloshi continues to inspire generations with her talent, wisdom, and longevity. To honor her contributions to the entertainment industry and her impact on South African culture, the Limpopo province, along with Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, paid tribute to the legendary actress.
On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, a special celebration was held to coincide with Heritage Day and World Elderly Day. Premier Ramathuba personally visited Mokgokoloshi at her home in Botlokwa Village, bringing the full support of the Limpopo government. This visit was more than just a birthday celebration—it was an acknowledgment of Mokgokoloshi’s lasting legacy and a reminder of the value of the elderly in South African society.
### A Message from Premier Ramathuba
During her visit, Premier Ramathuba expressed deep admiration and respect for Mokgokoloshi. “As the government of Limpopo, we are proud of you,” said Ramathuba. “For you to reach this age is an incredible achievement, and it makes us feel fortunate. It’s becoming increasingly rare to live beyond the age of 70 these days, and we are learning valuable lessons from your life.”
Ramathuba also took the opportunity to highlight the importance of appreciating the elderly while they are still alive. “We want to teach the youth that supporting, loving, and respecting our elders is crucial,” she said. The premier’s visit was not only a heartfelt celebration of Mokgokoloshi’s birthday but also a cultural reminder of the importance of caring for the elderly, a value deeply rooted in African traditions.
### A Cultural Icon
Lydia Mokgokoloshi has been a central figure in South African television for many years, endearing herself to viewers across the country. Her portrayal of Koko Mantsha on Skeem Saam has made her a household name, earning her fans from multiple generations. Beyond her work on the screen, Mokgokoloshi’s life is a testament to strength, resilience, and perseverance, qualities that have earned her admiration from colleagues and fans alike.
As South Africa celebrated Heritage Day—a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage—it was fitting that one of the nation’s cultural icons, Mokgokoloshi, was honored on the same day. Heritage Day encourages South Africans to reflect on the richness of their traditions, and Mokgokoloshi’s contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniably a part of that heritage.
### Celebrating a Legacy
The celebration of Mokgokoloshi’s 85th birthday extended beyond the premier’s visit. Fans and well-wishers from across the country also shared their congratulations and birthday messages on social media. Many took to platforms like Twitter and Facebook to honor the actress, thanking her for her decades of entertainment and wishing her many more years of health and happiness.
Mokgokoloshi’s continued presence on Skeem Saam serves as a reminder of her enduring talent, and her 85th birthday marked not just another year of life, but a celebration of her immense contributions to South African television and culture.
As Mokgokoloshi continues to inspire both young and old, her legacy as one of South Africa’s most treasured actresses remains secure. Through celebrations like these, her influence will continue to shape the next generation of South African talent.