A joyful start to 2025: Western Cape public health facilities welcome 101 newborns on New Years Day
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness can now confirm that 101 babies were born in public health facilities across the province on 01 January 2025, marking a heartwarming start to the new year.
From 00:00 on New Year’s Day, 43 girls and 58 boys were safely delivered, bringing joy to families and communities across the province.
The first baby of the year, a baby girl was born at George Hospital at exactly 00:07, weighing 2.98 kg, to proud mother Esmerelda Bordtjies.
Shortly after, at 00:20, a baby girl was born at Macassar MOU weighing 2.89kg.
Third, was a baby boy, born at Ceres Hospital, weighing 4.04 kg.
We are also thrilled to announce the birth of three sets of twins. Two sets born at Tygerberg Hospital and one set Groote Schuur Hospital.
As the province celebrates the arrival of these precious new lives, the department encourages parents to embrace the opportunities offered by their local clinics to support their babies’ early development.
The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception, are critical for their health and well-being, and clinic visits provide access to essential services such as immunisations, health education, and regular check-ups. These services are designed to help families start well, ensuring their children have the strongest foundation for a bright future.
Minister Mireille Wenger extended her congratulations, saying:
"The birth of a child is a moment of great joy and hope, symbolising new beginnings. We celebrate with families welcoming their little ones today and urge parents to access the support available to them through our clinics. Together, we can ensure every child starts life with the care they deserve. It was such a joy to be part of welcoming the first baby born in the metro at Tygerberg Hospital this morning. I’m so happy to see that both mom and baby are doing great, and it’s a wonderful way to start the new year. Our amazing staff brought smiles to so many families today and we are all grateful for their work to support each and every patient. Their unwavering dedication has made these safe deliveries possible. Thank you to our healthcare workers for being the backbone of our health system."
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness congratulates all parents and caregivers on the safe delivery of their babies. We also extend heartfelt thanks to our healthcare workers, especially midwives, who sacrificed time with their own families to provide exceptional care to others on this special day.
As we embrace a new year filled with possibility, let’s commit to giving our children the best possible beginning - together, we can help every family and new life start well.
*Please note: Figures are accurate as of 11:00 on 02 January 2025. No further updates will be provided.