Western Cape public health facilities welcomed 231 babies on Christmas Day

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is happy to announce the birth of 231 babies at public health facilities throughout the Western Cape on Christmas Day 2023.*

The total number reported from 0:00 on 25 December 2023, comprises of 111 boys and 120 girls.

The first three Christmas babies were born between 00:00-00:15. The first baby boy, Landon Matthew Joseph, weighed 2.48kg and was born at 00:00 at Mossel Bay Hospital to mother Nadine Joseph.

The second baby, Luphawo Twani, was born at 00:09 at Hanover Park CHC to mother Andisiwe Twani. Luphawo weighed 3.14kg.

The third baby, a boy weighing 2.9kg, was born at 00:15 at Worcester Hospital to Mother Rebekka Smit.

We are also happy to welcome two sets of twins, one pair born at Mowbray Maternity Hospital and the other at Tygerberg Hospital.

"As families around the Western Cape and the world over, I wish to congratulate those who will be celebrating the births of their children during this time of festivity. As you begin this journey of parenthood, let us work together as society and government to ensure that our precious ones are given a strong and stable start to their lives. Health is everyone’s business and children deserve to benefit from our collective action. I wish every resident of the Christian faith a very Merry Christmas and an enjoyable holiday," says Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo.

Western Cape Government Health and Wellness believes that the first thousand days of a child’s life, from conception, is critical for their development. The physical, social, and brain development that takes place during this time is a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a solid foundation for health, learning, and good relationships in the future. This is an important time to support your child’s development through adequate nutrition, immunisations, and by reading to your child.

Western Cape Government Health and Wellness congratulates the parents on the safe delivery of all the new arrivals on Christmas Day. We look forward to being a part of their development journey. We also extend a sincere thank you to all our staff members, including midwives, for their hard work and dedication on this special day.

* Kindly note that the total is subject to change as more births are reported. Figures correct as at 12:00 on 26 December 2023.