Cape Town - 192 babies were born in the Western Cape on Christmas Day.
Health and Wellness Department spokesperson Sandra Maritz said health facilities said of the 192 babies born, 124 were boys and 68 girls.
The first baby, which arrived at midnight at Groote Schuur Hospital, weighed 3.130kg, and was born to Stella Masunda. A minute later, a girl weighing 3.2kg, was born to Miché Prins at the same hospital.
Two sets of twins were also born, with the first set of twins, two girls, born at 4.30pm to Elvina Amos at Tygerberg Hospital.
Groote Schuur Hospital operational manager Fatoema Moos said there was joy among the labour ward sisters despite it being a busy night. Gifts were also handed to the moms of the first babies born at the hospital.
“We also placed Ms Masunda’s baby in a manger surrounded by animal figurines, replicating a scene of when baby Jesus was born. Despite the staff being tired after a busy night there was a sense of elation and pride. They only later realised they delivered the first Christmas babies.“
The department congratulated all new parents on the birth of their newborn babies, and emphasised the importance of ensuring a safe and healthy 1000 first days.
“Our message to all new parents is that of the importance of the first 1000 days of a child’s life (since inception to two years old). Provide your baby with a safe environment and good nutrition.
“Make sure their immunisations are up to date and that you play an active role in their development by talking to them, playing with them, and supporting them to reach their milestones. The Department of Health looks forward to joining you on this journey,” Maritz said.