The dawn of the new year in the Free State was met with the birth of 17 babies (11 females and 6 males) as at 06:00. It is expected that this number will grow during the course of the day, Ms Elke de Witt, Acting Spokesperson for the Free State Department of Health said

The first baby born at public health hospitals in the Free State was at 00:03 at the Dr JS Moroka district hospital in Thaba Nchu to Ms Keneilwe Thoabala (23) from Thaba Nchu.

 At 00:04, Ms 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. Nthabiseng Mogola from Meloding  gave birth to her son (1,880kg) at 00:07.

Ms Mathabo Leeto, MEC for Health visited the maternity ward at the Bongani Tertiary Hospital  in Welkom where 6 babies were born.

Ms Leeto met with health care professionals and congratulated the mothers with the new additions to their families. Mothers received care packages filled with baby products, nappies, kangaroo wraps, mothers’ toiletries amongst others generously sponsored by #MTN.

“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. Where breastfeeding is not practical mothers are encouraged to express the breastmilk and feed per bottle, because breast milk has major health benefits – such as strengthening the baby’s immune system. It also creates a strong bond between the mother and the baby”, said Ms Leeto

Mothers should also ensure that the babies get necessary immunisations from birth, and always remember to take their Road-To-Health-Booklet, previously known as Clinic Card to hospital or clinic as it keeps track of your child’s immunisation which shows doctors and nurses your child growth.