Mauritius: Ganeeka Koober celebrated her 100th birthday at Rukmini Dwarkadhish Temple in Triolet. She was surrounded by family and friends while she celebrated her 100th birthday.
The newest centenarian of Mauritius was born on 07 September 1924. She celebrated with both her family and the government of Mauritius who hosted an official ceremony.
The celebratory event was organised by the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity. The event was attended by the Minister of Labour, Human Resource Development and Training, Soodesh Satkam Callichurn.
The aim of the celebration was to honour the new centenarian in the presence of her family and loved ones. The Parliamentary Private Secretary, Sharvanand Ramkaun, and other personalities were also present for the occasion.
During the celebration, Koober received a cheque amounting to Rs 26,203 from the authorities. They also gave the elder a bouquet, a centenarian medal, a certificate, one microwave oven and a Special Telephone Service.
Further, the members of the community a gift from the Senior Citizens Council, and a cheque to the tune of Rs 10,000 from the National Solidarity Fund.
Ganeeka Koober, also known as Moonia, was born on 07 September 1924 at Bon Accueil. She has never attended school. Her father, Mr Mahadawoo Seerkeessoon, was a labourer at FUEL Sugar Estate and her mother was a housemaid. She had two brothers and four sisters and all of them have passed away.
She got civilly married to Koober Sewoolall who was a labourer at the Pamplemousses District Council. Koober has never worked in her life. Her husband passed away on 26 May 1986.
The couple was blessed with seven children, five sons and two daughters. Two of her sons have passed away. The centenarian enjoys the company of her 20 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She currently lives with her son, Mr Koober Deoduth.
Koober enjoys all kinds of food but prawns are her favourite. She likes watching television and listening to the radio. She also likes to socialise and enjoys participating in every family gathering.
She has a strong faith in God and loves to pray. She attributes her longevity to her strong faith in God, regular prayers and good care from her children.