The North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi accompanied by Health MEC Sello Lehari and other dignitaries visited Mahikeng Provincial Hospital to welcome and hand over goodies to Christmas babies born between 00:00 – 09:00.
Lehari will also interact with mothers, families and healthcare professionals, and extend words of encouragement and goodwill to all those spending Christmas in health facilities.
Speaking on the YOUFM breakfast show on Christmas Day, Lehari announced that babies were delivered between midnight and 07:00 on Thursday, Christmas Day.
“The good news so far is that 42 Christmas new-born babies have been delivered across the province. 16 of them were born in various healthcare facilities within the Ngaka Modiri Molema district. Of that number 22 of the babies are males, while 20 are females. But it’s also disheartening to report that the province has recorded four 16 year olds as the youngest mothers.” Said MEC Lehari
“I think it’s important for us as the Department to provide support especially to first time mothers, and it will also assist us to assess the state of equipment fitted in wards dedicated to babies at the Hospital.” MEC Lehari explained
Lehari said that the visit also forms part of the Department’s commitment to celebrating new life while acknowledging the dedication of healthcare workers who continue to serve communities during the festive season.
The MEC has commended the sacrifice and commitment of healthcare professionals who continue to deliver lives and safe lives during this busy festive season.“We wish to encourage our healthcare workers for their dedication and hard work during this period to provide services to our people.” Concluded
Meanwhile, Premier Lazarus Mokgosi has also raised concern with regards to the teenage pregnancy in the province.
“You will remember that last year in Vryburg, we had a similar case where a 16 year old girl gave birth to a baby. This year we have four young mothers. It’s a matter that has to be taken to the police because the law dictates that the department of health take this matter up with the police.” Said the Premier
He has however applauded officials at the Mahikeng Provincial hospital for good healthcare services delivered during the festive season.
“The hospital provides healthcare services to more than 102 villages around Ngaka Modiri Molema District hence we have increased its capacity by further 400 beds and augmented the health services with about 26 clinics and 4 community health centres.” He added
The number of babies born on Christmas is expected to increase as the day progresses.
