Kohima: Vilanuo Angela Yhome, the president of the Naga Mothers Association, died at her home on July 31. She was 67. Her passing drew tributes from across Nagaland for her tireless work in peace-building, education, and women's rights.
A Requiem Mass took place on August 1 at Christ the King Church in Kohima Village. Bishop of Kohima Most Rev Dr James Thoppil led the service alongside several priests. Burial followed at her residence on Billy Graham Road. She leaves behind a reputation for courage and humility.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio praised Yhome as a distinguished leader and a voice for social justice. Her friend and fellow advocate Rosemary Dzuvichu spoke at the service. She noted the hardships Yhome endured while fighting for her community. “Angela was more than a mother -a sister to many, a mother and father to all her nieces and nephews,” Dzuvichu said.
Yhome survived threats, harassment, and torture during her years of activism. She remained committed to reconciliation despite the risks. The Global Naga Forum highlighted her fierce struggle to secure 33% reservation for women. She was independent and paid for her own education after finishing school.
Family members, including Kelhouneizo Andrew Yhome, remembered her as a central figure who provided for them like a parent. She never married. Naga Students Federation President Mteisuding Heraang called her death a sad moment for all Naga people. The Catholic Church also celebrated her life, noting her willingness to speak her mind and her deep faith.
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