Mrs Valliamey Chinnapen, born at Roche Bois Estate on 23 June 1922, celebrated her 100th birthday, yesterday, at Ajoodhea Hall in Long Mountain.
In this context, an official ceremony was organised by the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity to honour the new centenarian. On this occasion, Mrs Chinnapen received, from the authorities, a cheque amounting to Rs 21,836; another one to the tune of Rs 10,000 from the National Solidarity Fund; a bouquet; a centenarian medal; and one certificate.
The Minister of Energy and Public Utilities, Mr Georges Pierre Lesjongard, Members of Parliament, as well as other personalities and the close relatives of Mrs Chinnapen, were present on this occasion.
Mrs Valliamey Chinnapen, also known as Aka Nava, was born on 23 June 1922 at Riche Bois Estate. Her father was a vegetable seller and her mother a housewife. Her mother gave birth to three children, two sons and one daughter. All her siblings have passed away.
The centenarian got civilly married to Mr Goinsamy Chinnapen on 24 September 1952. Out of this union, seven children were born, five daughters and two sons. She has 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Mrs Chinnapen’s favourite dish is rice and fish curry. She has a good memory and likes to cook and talk about her childhood memories while being surrounded by her family. She dedicates her longevity to her belief in God and prayers.
Latest statistics from the Welfare and Elderly Persons’ Protection Unit of the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity reveal that the Republic of Mauritius has recorded, as at 23 June 2022, a total of 183 centenarians from Mauritius and Rodrigues. In Mauritius, the number of female and male centenarians stands at 148 and 25 respectively while in Rodrigues, the number of centenarians recorded are eight females and two males.
