In Sri Lanka:

Angohami 115, now the oldest woman

by Ananda AGALAKADA

Sri Lanka's oldest woman passed away at the age of 116 on February 5, 2004 in the down South. The deceased O. T. Engonona breathed her last after a brief illness, in her hut. She was born in 1888 in Gale district. After Engonona's death another centenarian, Angohami, is believed to be the oldest living woman in Sri Lanka.

Aged 115, Dediyagamaacharige Angohami was a resident of Jalasagama Walgammulla in Hambantota district.

Her National Identity Card indicates that she was born on March 13, 1897 and never received primary school education, making her life difficult.

Angohami's husband died 35 years ago, and earned his daily bread by engaging in casual labourer in the citronella estates in his village. Angohami bore three sons and five daughters, in her marriage, out of which two of her sons had died. E. G. Nonnohami, the eldest daughter is over 85 years. E. G. Charlis, the Angohami's younger son is over 65. Angohami has grandchildren, great gandchildren and great great grandchildren, numbering over 60.

Angohami still lives in her wattle and daub hut during day time. Her relatives look after her quite well. Unfortunately Angohami lost her sight at middle-age.

Despite her impaired vision Angohami manages her morning chores herself. She eats and drinks without any help and her hearing is reasonably good.

Angohami is not a vegetarian. She is very fond of fish, but not meat. Jak fruit, breadfruit and many kinds of yams are to her liking. She loves to listen to sermons and Pirith over the radio. Angohami hopes to live longer and her relatives want to see her live longer without any problems.

Her grandniece lends a helping hand	Her youngest son Charlis