Mpho Mathibela enjoyed a gigantic cake with several hundred other children when she celebrated her 21st birthday at a community hall in Joubertina in Klerksdorp, North West, at the weekend.

Mpho Mathibela enjoyed a gigantic cake with several hundred other children when she celebrated her 21st birthday at a community hall in Joubertina in Klerksdorp, North West, at the weekend.

Mpho is the surviving half of South Africa's famous Mpho and Mphonyana Siamese twins.

When they were born in 1986, Mpho and Mphonyana were joined by their heads.

Their plight gripped the imagination of of the nation and thousands prayed for the success of the operation to separate them in 1989. Sadly, Mphonyana passed away in 1990.

A series of celebratory events took place over three days from December 6. Mpho's birthday party was attended by her mother Sophie, Matlosana executive mayor China Dodovu and other dignitaries.

Also present were the surgeons who operated, nurses who assisted and people who contributed to Mpho's welfare over the years. Prayers were said at the Mathibela home and at Mphonyana's grave. - Victor Mecoamere