The joy of welcoming Christmas and New Year babies in Mpumalanga was mixed with a serious concern, as teenage pregnancies remain a serious issue.
On December 25, Nkangala District recorded seven teenage deliveries on Christmas Day, and Witbank Hospital reported some of the youngest mothers.

Two girls, both only 15 years old, gave birth at the Witbank Hospital and Mammetlhake Hospital, along with another two who are 16 years old from both Mammetlhake and Standerton.

According to the MEC of Health in Mpumalanga, Sasekani Manzini, in her recent media address during the annual New Year’s Day visit to Shongwe Hospital in Nkomazi to welcome the first babies of 2026, Manzini worried over minors among moms who delivered. She cited that this is not only a health crisis but a societal challenge that threatens the future of young people.

Manzini further expressed that the Department of Health is deeply concerned about the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies across Mpumalanga.
In 2025 alone, more than 9 700 teenagers gave birth in the province, with some as young as 14 years old. In her statement, not all teenagers included in the stats are 14 and 15 years old; however, those ages have raised eyebrows more than the other.

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, also expressed deep concerns in her most recent address, citing that beyond health, teenage pregnancy continues to undermine the future of young South Africans, leaving many vulnerable to poverty and social challenges.
She further emphasised that teenage pregnancy makes girls more exposed to poverty and gender-based violence, while also disrupting their education and long-term prospects.

In their media statement, the Department of Health has confirmed that these cases will be reported to the Department of Social Development, SAPS, and other relevant officials for further investigation. This will help ensure that the teenage mothers receive the care and protection they need.

Media Statement.
26 December 2025#Christmasbabies2025 pic.twitter.com/EL9XG8Yf5E

— Mpumalanga Health (@MpuHealth1) December 26, 2025

However, on New Year’s Day, Witbank Hospital only had a reason to celebrate as it was the first hospital to welcome a New Year’s baby who was born at 00:05 by a 24-year-old mother.

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