Hello 2026: Emalahleni rings in the New Year with newborn smiles
The first baby of 2026 was born just after midnight at Witbank Hospital, as 50 babies were welcomed across the province on New Year's Day.
The Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality marked the start of 2026 by paying a special visit to newborn babies and their families at Witbank Hospital, highlighting the importance of new life and community care in the New Year.
The visit followed the announcement by the Department of Health that the first baby of 2026 was born at Witbank Hospital at 00:05.
The baby boy, weighing 2.8kg, was delivered by a 24-year-old mother, becoming a symbol of hope and renewal for the municipality.
During New Year’s Day, the province recorded a total of 50 births, consisting of 23 boys and 27 girls.
As part of the mayoral outreach, Mayor Clr Vusi Nhlapho, visited Witbank General Hospital to congratulate families and acknowledge the dedication of healthcare workers who ensured safe deliveries during the festive period.
At Life Cosmos Hospital, three baby boys were born on New Year’s Day, while Witbank General Hospital recorded the birth of four baby boys.
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