Limpopo province welcomes 38 babies on Christmas Day

Christmas Day began on a joyful note in Limpopo, where 38 babies were safely delivered across the province in the first six hours of 25 December.

The babies were welcomed by Limpopo MEC for Health Dieketseng Mashego. 

According to preliminary statistics released by the department, 22 girls and 16 boys were safely delivered at various public health facilities across the province.

The province welcomed newborn babies between midnight and 6am.

Sekhukhune District recorded the highest number of births, with 13 babies, followed by Vhembe and Mopani districts, which also recorded notable numbers.

Mashego thanked healthcare professionals who worked during the festive season for their dedication and commitment to safe deliveries and quality maternal and newborn care.

“The birth of a child on Christmas Day is a powerful symbol of hope, renewal and joy,” she said. 

“We congratulate all families and commend our health workers who continue to serve our communities selflessly, even on special days such as Christmas.”

She added that the Limpopo Department of Health remains committed to strengthening maternal, neonatal and child health services, and ensuring dignified, safe and quality care for all mothers and newborns during the festive season and beyond.

Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal recorded 74 Christmas Day births by 10am, including 39 girls and 35 boys, according to KZN Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane.

Simelane said that by 7am, the province had recorded 42 births – 25 girls and 17 boys – but the number increased steadily as the morning progressed. 

Three boys were born at Ladysmith Hospital, while another mother was in active labour and expected to deliver later in the day.

“The arrival of Christmas babies is a special moment that reminds us that even in challenging times, life continues to gift us hope,” Simelane said.

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