EASTERN CAPE WELCOMES 219 NEW YEAR BABIES

Bhisho – The Eastern Cape started the new year on a joyful note, welcoming 219 babies born at public health facilities on January 1. This marks an increase of 19 babies compared to the 200 births recorded on the first day of 2024.

The first baby of the year, a girl, was born at 12:03 am at Bhisho Hospital. Of the total births, 113 are girls, and 106 are boys.

Eastern Cape MEC for Health, Ntandokazi Capa, visited Dora Nginza Hospital in Gqeberha, where she handed out gifts to the newborns and care packs to their mothers. MEC Capa emphasized the importance of celebrating with new mothers and acknowledging the critical role of healthcare workers.

However, MEC Capa also expressed concern about a 12-year-old girl among the new mothers. “It’s unacceptable for a 12-year-old to have a baby,” she said, highlighting the need for intensified sex education and parental involvement in educating young girls and boys about the dangers of unprotected sex.

The department has pledged to work with stakeholders to provide comprehensive sex education, empowering the youth to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.