PHUMZILE Biyela-Ndebele of Mabhensa in kwaMthethwa gave birth to triplets in November at the Lower Umfolozi Regional War Memorial Hospital.
The mother of five welcomed an additional three to the clan.
Married to a polygamist, Phumzile is the third wife of five. Both she and her husband are unemployed and she supports her eight children from the grant she receives for her first five children.
Last week, following a check-up at the hospital, Biyela-Ndebele, who was accompanied by two of her ‘sister-wives’, was relieved at the progress of her newborn babies.
‘When the triplets were born they were extremely tiny and due to their weight, we had them stay in hospital for a month,’ said Lower Umfolozi Regional War Memorial Hospital Public Relations Officer Nompilo Mvubu.
The triplets, who weighed only a few grams at birth, now weigh almost 3kgs each.
‘It is such a blessing having sister-wives. At present, I only see to one of my infants as the other wives are helping to look after the other two newborn babies,’ said Biyela-Ndebele.
‘It is a very supportive structure to live in.
‘With a history of twins in both families, it was the first time triplets have been born.
‘I have to admit though, it is not an easy job. Especially with both my husband and I not working. We would appreciate any assistance,’ she said.
