As of 06:00, 17 New Year babies were born in the Free State on 1 January 2024. The were eleven girls and six boys born and the number has since increased.
The Free State Department of Health Acting Spokesperson Elke De Witt said the first baby born at a public health hospital in the Free State was born at 00:03 at the Dr. JS Moroka District hospital in Thaba Nchu, Free State to Keneilwe Thoabala (23) and weighed 3.260kg at birth.
At 00:04, Elisa Chinula (28) from Parys delivered her daughter (3,050kg) at the Parys District Hospital in Parys. The maternity ward at Bongani Regional Hospital in Welkom delivered the third baby of Nthabiseng Mogola from Meloding who gave birth to a son (1,880kg) at 00:07.
Free State Health MEC Mathabo Leeto, visited the maternity ward of Bongani Tertiary Hospital in Welkom where she met with healthcare professionals and congratulated the mothers.
“New mothers across the province are encouraged to breastfeed exclusively, at least for the first six months of their lives. Breastmilk continues to be an important source of nutrients to children after 6 months, therefore there is no need to put a time limit on feeds. Breast milk has major health benefits such as strengthening the baby’s immune system.” Said MEC Leeto.
#BeTheFirstToKnow
