A 6.3kg newborn has brought a mixture of surprise and joy to one Eastern Cape family. 

Lisolethu Nzungu (35) from Mdantsane welcomed her baby boy, Izimakhe, who was born via caesarean section at the Life Beacon Bay Hospital on September 20. 

“In the first few months of my pregnancy everything was going well, but toward the last months it began to feel heavy,” says Nzungu, adding that despite this, she did not have any complications.

“I was getting tired and I could not wait to see my baby.” 

During her pregnancy, Nzungu, now a mother of two, craved dairy products.  

“I loved maas and yoghurt.” 

She says doctors gave her no indication that her baby would weigh more than 6kg.  

In preparation for the baby’s arrival, Nzungu bought newborn-sized clothing but has now had to exchange it for clothing in the three- to six-month size. 

“When the baby arrived, I was shocked and surprised, but also happy all at the same time. I was happy and thanking God for a safe delivery. We are so happy because the baby was healthy and strong. We felt good.” 

She adds her baby is doing well. 

Ntombi Broadley, a midwife and the founder of Little Arrivals Home Visiting Midwife, says the average full-term baby weighs between 3.3kg and 3.5kg. 

Broadley has been a midwife since 1989 and has worked in South Africa and the UK. 

“A 6.3kg baby is indeed rare. I have delivered approximately 3 000 babies and none of them have been over 6kg,” she says. 

For the hospital, Izimakhe’s birth marked a milestone for the maternity team.
 
In a statement, the hospital said his weight is almost double the average newborn weight.  

“This was a very special delivery for everyone involved,” adds obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Gibson Muzonzini.  

Muzonzini says every pregnancy and birth is unique and that their focus is always on providing safe, high-quality care tailored to the needs of each mother and baby. “We are delighted that both are doing well and wish the family every happiness as they begin this exciting new chapter.” 

Lyndee Hartwanger, the hospital manager, adds that welcoming a new baby into the world is always a special occasion.  

“We are proud of the dedication and expertise of our maternity and neonatal teams, whose commitment helps ensure that mothers and babies receive the highest standard of care no matter what their birth weight is. It has been a privilege to share in this family’s joyful moment,” she concludes.  

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