AS KZN welcomed more than 140 babies born on Christmas Day, concern has been raised over the persistent scourge of child and teenage pregnancy.

The call was made by KZN Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane during an event to welcome Christmas babies at Ladysmith Hospital on Thursday.

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Addressing the media, Simelane said the occasion was a special moment that serves as a reminder that, even in challenging times, life continues to offer hope.

“We congratulate the mothers and families of these Christmas babies. We see their birth on such a special day as a powerful symbol of renewal, love, humility and new beginnings.

“These babies are arriving in families, but they also belong to communities, to our province, and to a country that needs their light, their laughter and their future contributions,” said Simelane.

However, she noted with concern that among the mothers who gave birth on Christmas Day were three 15-year-olds, as well as a 16-year-old who delivered at Queen Nandi Regional Hospital in Empangeni.

“It is particularly shocking that the 16-year-old at Queen Nandi was impregnated by a 32-year-old man,” Simelane said.

She added that teenage pregnancy is not an isolated occurrence linked to festive periods, but a recurring issue that reflects a broader societal challenge.

“What we are seeing today reinforces the fact that teenage pregnancy remains a serious problem in our society, one that robs young girls of their childhood and often forces them into adulthood long before they are ready. It also places the lives of these young mothers and their babies at significant risk,” Simelane said.

KZN Christmas Day Total births: 143
Females: 64
Males: 79