FS Premier Applauds Healthcare Workers for Christmas Day Baby Deliveries

Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae

The Free State celebrated a festive and heartwarming milestone this Christmas as 45 babies were born across public hospitals in the province by 20:00 on 25 December 2024. Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, joined by the MEC for Health, Monyatso Mahlatsi, and other members of the Executive Council, visited various healthcare facilities to deliver gifts, meet proud mothers, and honour the dedication of healthcare workers who ensured safe deliveries on this special day.

Christmas Day: A Symbol of Hope and New Beginnings

The 25th of December is a day cherished worldwide, particularly among Christians, as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a day symbolising hope, love, and renewal. In modern society, Christmas has transcended religious significance for many, becoming a time to connect with loved ones and celebrate the gift of life. This year in the Free State, the day was marked by the joyous arrival of 45 Christmas babies, filling maternity wards with cheer and gratitude.

Premier Letsoha-Mathae led the provincial initiative to visit healthcare institutions, a gesture aimed at recognising the importance of healthcare workers and celebrating the newborns who represent the province’s future. Accompanied by MEC Mahlatsi, the Premier visited Pelonomi Hospital, MUCPP (Mangaung University Community Partnership Programme), and National Hospital in Bloemfontein.

Speaking at National Hospital, Premier Letsoha-Mathae expressed her delight at the safe delivery of 11 babies at the three facilities by the time of her visit. “We are overjoyed to welcome these beautiful new lives into the world. I am incredibly proud of our healthcare teams who work tirelessly, especially during the festive season, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both mothers and babies,” she said.

A Tribute to Healthcare Workers

The Premier took time to personally thank doctors, nurses, and hospital staff for their dedication, even amid the challenges faced by the healthcare sector. “Your unwavering commitment does not go unnoticed. You have made it possible for these families to celebrate Christmas with immense joy,” she added.

MEC Mahlatsi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the long hours and sacrifices made by healthcare workers. “Despite the difficulties we face as a sector, your work continues to inspire us. Today, we celebrate not just the newborns but the teams who make moments like these possible,” he remarked.

The Premier also commended the cleaning staff for their efforts in maintaining a high standard of cleanliness at the facilities, noting visible improvements since her previous visits.

Mbovane and Mjezu Foundation: Partners in Celebration

This year’s Christmas baby initiative was further enriched by the generous contributions of the Mbovane and Mjezu Foundation, which provided baby care packages for the newborns and their mothers. The Premier expressed her gratitude to the foundation for their role in making the day memorable. “It is through partnerships like these that we can truly make a difference in the lives of our people,” she said.

Highlights from Maternity Wards

The maternity wards across Free State healthcare facilities were abuzz with activity. By 08:00 on Christmas morning, 24 babies (9 girls and 15 boys) had been born, with the number increasing to 45 (21 girls and 24 boys) by 20:00.

The first baby of the day was born at 00:15 at National District Hospital in Bloemfontein. Ms Palesa Khatsi delivered a healthy baby boy, Thandolwethu Kosana, weighing 2.64kg. “Both mother and baby are in excellent health,” reported Acting Spokesperson for the Free State Department of Health, Ms Elke de Witt.

At 00:30, Ms Thembisile Ndaba from Senekal gave birth to a baby girl at Dihlabeng Regional Hospital in Bethlehem, followed by Ms Mpho Seretsi from Welkom, who welcomed her daughter at 00:33 at Bongani Regional Hospital.

By evening, the maternity wards had delivered 45 bundles of joy, with the final tally expected to be updated on 26 December 2024.

Challenges in Healthcare

While the day was one of celebration, MEC Mahlatsi acknowledged the ongoing challenges within the healthcare sector, including staff shortages and resource constraints. “We are aware of the pressures our facilities face, but we remain committed to improving conditions for both our healthcare workers and patients,” he said.

The Premier reaffirmed her government’s commitment to addressing these challenges, citing recent budget allocations aimed at bolstering healthcare infrastructure and staffing. “Today is a reminder of why we must continue to invest in this critical sector. Every baby born today is a testament to the importance of the work we do,” she stated.

Community and Family Reflections

Families across the province shared their joy at the arrival of their Christmas babies. “I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas gift,” said Ms Khatsi, mother of baby Thandolwethu. Other families echoed similar sentiments, with many expressing gratitude for the care and support they received at the facilities.

Healthcare workers, too, shared their experiences of working on such a significant day. “It’s an honour to be part of these families’ journeys. Moments like these make the hard work worth it,” said a midwife at National Hospital.

Building a Healthier Future

As the province celebrates these Christmas miracles, the Free State government has pledged to continue working towards a healthier and more equitable healthcare system. “Every life matters, and today we are reminded of the power of community, resilience, and hope,” said Premier Letsoha-Mathae.

Final Statistics Awaited

The final count of Christmas babies born in the Free State will be updated on 26 December 2024, with the Department of Health set to release a detailed report.

For now, the province rejoices in the gift of new life, honouring the healthcare workers who made it possible and looking ahead to a brighter future for every family.