Mauritius: Marie Suzanne Mélin celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday 20 April 2024 becoming the newest Centenarian of Mauritius. The L’Hotel de ville de Curepipe served as the venue for the celebration which was attended by her family and loved ones.
Members of the government were also present to commemorate the remarkable occasion and honor the newest centenarian of the island. Mélin was born originally on April 18, 1924. The Mauritian government has pledged their support to the centenarian and her caregivers.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Land Use Planning, Minister of Tourism, Louis Steven Obeegadoo was present at the celebration. He was accompanied by other government officials, including the Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo.
The Parliamentary Private Secretary, Soobeersingh Dhunoo. The other government officials and leaders present at the event also paid their tribute to the 100 year old.
In commemoration of a life of 100 years, the government of Mauritius gave Mélin the following gifts:
- A cheque amounting to Rs 26,203
- A bouquet
- A centenarian medal
- A certificate
- A steam iron
- A special telephone service from Mauritius Telecom
Moreover the National Solidarity Fund of the Ministry gave her a cheque amounting to Rs 10,000 along with a gift by the Senior Citizen Council.
The woman under spotlight, Marie Suzanne Mélin was originally from Curepipe. She attended school up to standard 3 before she was married civilly and religiously at the age of 18.
Her husband, Louis Andre Mélin worked as a mechanic. Initially, she did not pursue a career and instead focused on raising her family. However, after the death of her husband when she was 40 she sustained her family till the age of 60.
She worked as a maid to provide for her family. She suffers a number of health challenges including mild cerebrovascular accident affecting her left side. She also has diabetes, hypertension and hearing impairment.
Further, Mélin also has difficulty in walking. She credits her long life to her unwavering faith in God.
According to the centenarian, she enjoys non-vegetarian meals, with her favourites being Mauritian fish curry and ‘farata’.