By Phesheya Ian Kunene
MBABANE – The joy of Christmas was amplified by the arrival of 48 newborns in various health facilities across Eswatini, the Ministry of Health revealed. Between midnight and 2 p.m. on December 25, 2024, health facilities recorded the birth of 23 girls and 25 boys, marking a special celebration for families nationwide.
The highest number of deliveries was reported at Mbabane Government Hospital and RFM Hospital, each welcoming 11 babies. Hlathikhulu Government Hospital followed with 9 births, while Piggs Peak Government Hospital recorded 6. Nhlangano Health Centre reported 3 births, and Sithobela Health Centre welcomed 2 newborns.
However, some health facilities, including Mankayane Government Hospital, Mkhuzweni Health Centre, and Zondwako Clinic, did not record any births during this period. Among private hospitals, only the Women and Children Hospital reported a single male birth.
Minister of Health (Hon) Mduduzi Matsebula conveyed his heartfelt wishes in a special Christmas Day message. “I would like to wish all the babies born today, on Christmas Day, a wonderful birthday and a magical Christmas. It is a double dose of joy for the parents. Sibonga iNdlovu yemhlaba for the special gifts for the Christmas babies. Nkhosi! Ndlovuzazi! Mhlekazi! Special thanks also go to all workers working today, especially healthcare givers. Merry Christmas, and may the almighty God richly bless you,” he said.
To mark the special occasion, Minister Matsebula, accompanied by some members of the Senior Management Team, visited Mankayane Government Hospital and RFM Hospital. The delegation distributed gifts from Her Majesty The Queen Mother to the Christmas babies, spreading festive cheer and love.
Matsebula expressed his delight at the safe deliveries, describing the Christmas Day births as a “remarkable blessing” for the nation. He commended healthcare workers for their dedication and urged communities to provide support to new mothers.
“These births symbolize hope and renewal, not only for the families but for the entire country. The Ministry of Health remains committed to providing quality maternal and child healthcare to ensure every child is given the best start in life,” he said.
Families of the newborns reportedly shared their gratitude for the medical staff’s dedication during the holiday. Many described the births as a special gift, bringing immeasurable happiness to their lives.
The Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to improving healthcare services, ensuring safe deliveries, and reducing infant and maternal mortality rates.
