The National Department of Health has released the final tally of New Year’s baby. A total number of 1 448 births were recorded on the first day of the 2025 year, at South Africa’s public health facilities
In a statement, the department said this is a decline
compared to the 1 703 deliveries recorded in 2024
Alarmingly is the number of young and underage numbers. The
number of teen mothers has decreased from 190 recorded in 2024, to just over 80
recorded in 2025. The department called on all sectors of society, especially
families, to join hands with government and other non-governmental
organisations to address teenage pregnancy.
“Teenage pregnancy often leads to irregular school
attendance, poor performance and ultimately school dropout, especially for
mothers who lack family support structures to take care of the babies when the
mothers go to school,’’ said Foster Mohale, departmental spokesperson.
“The Department of Health, working together with sister
Departments of Social Development and Basic Education, will continue to support
all mothers through existing programmes to ensure their babies survive and
thrive,” he added.
#NewYearBabies The Department of Health welcomes the safe delivery of over 650 babies in the public health facilities across the country on the first day of the year 2025. pic.twitter.com/yZQVl1LW1C
Gauteng recorded the highest number of births with 387,
followed by Eastern Cape (219) and Limpopo (191).
The Western Cape recorded 101 births, with 58 being boys
and 43 girls. The first baby of the year in the province was a baby girl was
born at George Hospital at exactly 00:07, weighing 2.98 kg, to proud mother
Esmerelda Bordtjies. Shortly after, at 00:20, a baby girl was born at Macassar
MOU weighing 2.89kg. Third, was a baby boy, born at Ceres Hospital, weighing
4.04 kg.
Groote Schuur Hospital and Tygerberg Hospital,
respectively, welcomed two sets of twins.
MEC Mireille Wenger extended her congratulations, saying:
"The birth of a child is a moment of great joy and
hope, symbolising new beginnings. We celebrate with families welcoming their
little ones today and urge parents to access the support available to them
through our clinics. Together, we can ensure every child starts life with the
care they deserve. It was such a joy to be part of welcoming the first baby
born in the metro at Tygerberg Hospital this morning. I’m so happy to see that
both mom and baby are doing great, and it’s a wonderful way to start the new
year. Our amazing staff brought smiles to so many families today and we are all
grateful for their work to support each and every patient. Their unwavering
dedication has made these safe deliveries possible. Thank you to our healthcare
workers for being the backbone of our health system."
Done By: Mitchum George
No comments:
Post a Comment