MEC Motseng Tsiu, on Sunday 01 January 2023, visited the Welkom-based Bongani Regional Hospital. 

At least 18 babies, including seven girls and 11 boys, were delivered across different healthcare facilities.

The two heaviest babies weighed 3.45 kg respectively.

Tsiu urged all new mothers across the province to ensure that they breastfeed exclusively, at least for the first six months of their babies lives.

"Breastmilk continues to be an important source of nutrients to children after six months, therefore there is no need to put a time limit on feeds.

"Where breastfeeding is not practical, mothers are encouraged to express the breastmilk and feed per bottle because breast milk has major health benefits such as strengthening the baby's immune system.

"It also creates a strong bond between the mother and the baby,” Tsiu says.

The mothers were gifted baby products, nappies, kangaroo wraps and toiletries, amongst other gifts.

Tsiu adds that mothers of newborn babies should also ensure that the babies get the necessary immunisations from birth, and always remember to take their Road-To-Health-Booklet, previously known as Clinic Card, to the hospital or clinic as it keeps track of a child’s immunisation which shows doctors and nurses the child's growth.

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