Johannesburg: Over 300 babies were born across Gauteng public health facilities on New Year's Day, marking a significant start to the year 2025. A total of 396 babies were welcomed to the world, with an equal number of 198 males and 198 females born at public institutions across the province.
According to South African Government News Agency, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, visited postpartum mothers at the Leratong Hospital in the West Rand to celebrate the joyous occasion. During her visit, the MEC presented gift hampers to the mothers, sharing in their joy and welcoming the newborns.
The provincial Health Department reported that 79 babies were delivered at the province's four academic hospitals: Steve Biko, Dr George Mukhari, Chris Hani Baragwanath, and Charlotte Maxeke. Additionally, Tembisa and Kalafong tertiary hospitals accounted for 42 births, while regional and district hospitals, including the Jubilee and Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, saw the arrival of 204 babies.
Community healthcare centres also played a role in the New Year celebrations, with 71 babies born at facilities such as the Hillbrow CHC, Mofolo CHC, and the Laudium CHC. This follows a similar celebration on Christmas Day, where MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko welcomed 428 newborns at Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital, presenting mothers with gift hampers to mark the festive occasion.
