'World's oldest person' dies after living through 3 different centuries age 128

08 March 2023 , 07:41

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Johanna Mazibuko (Image: Newsflash)

A woman believed to be the world’s oldest person has died at age 128 in South Africa, having lived through three different centuries.

Mother-of-seven Johanna Mazibuko, reportedly died in her home in the North West Province of the country.

Her caregiver and daughter-in-law Thandiwe Wesinyana told News24 that she may have died from a stroke.

The reports are unverified and claims of her being the oldest person in the world are not officially recognised. As US-born Maria Branyas Morera was named the world’s oldest person by Guinness World Records in January, at age 115.

Ms Mazibuko reportedly celebrated her 128th birthday on Wednesday, May 11.

Inside quietest room in the world where no one can stay inside for over an hour

Her daughter-in-law said she may have died from a stroke (Newsflash)

Local mayor James Tsolela previously said: "We have been checking and doing research to see who is the oldest. We can't find anyone her age. We do have her ID saying that.

"We have to try and put her in the book of Guinness Book of Records, so she can be properly honoured."

Despite being illiterate, she told News24 why she may have lived so long: "We lived so well on the farms. There were no problems."

Though she cannot remember her childhood well, she recalls the time there was a locust infestation on the farms.

She said: "There were ones we could catch and eat. It was like you are eating meat.

"We would just fry them and eat them like that, just on their own."

Meanwhile, Ms Morera, who uses Twitter with the help of her daughter, said after receiving the official status that she was “surprised and grateful” for the interest generated. However, the last few days had been “stressful” and she would not be giving any more interviews.

“I need peace and tranquillity,” she tweeted. “I have lived in the Tura Residence for 22 years and I do not want the day-to-day life of the residents or the staff who take care of us to change.”

Rachel Hagan