The year 2023 will mark the biggest milestones for veteran radio presenter Mankoko Baby Mokhari. The 40 year old presenter will be celebrating 63 years of one of the oldest South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Radio station Thobela fm. Mankoko who was born and raised in Mookgopong, describes her talent on radio being like fine wine, as her talent matured with age.

The presenter of the afternoon drive show “Ntšhirogele” , says she was lucky to have worked and being guided by great radio veterans like Lady Joe Mabotja, bra Mahuma Paul Rapetsoa, Max Mojapelo, and Mma Mmanoko Semenya. She classify her work as that of an essential worker, as she serves the nation through radio platform.

On Thobela Fm celebrating 63 years, Mankoko Baby says “The ever-heartwarming feedback I receive from listeners cannot be traded in for anything. What a time to be alive. I am a mother. Each of my children’s birthdays is very meaningful because I know the pain of giving birth, so are my feelings about Thobela FM. Like old wine, one’s talent gets sweeter with age. Expect more on the airwaves. As TV and radio evolve, we keep reinventing ourselves to remain relevant.”

According to Acting Group Executive of Corporate Affairs and Marketing at SABC Mmoni Seapolelo, as part of celebrating 63 years the radio station will be doing a lot of activations in the country to celebrate the milestone. The station which started as Radio Lebowa, before changing to Thobela fm attracts millions listeners across Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng.

The loyal listeners won’t be left behind according to Limpopo Combo business manager Madikana Matjila, who said there will be competitions and prizes to be won as part of celebrating 63 years of Thobela fm, so people must stay tuned to Thobela fm.