Early count: 28 babies born in Western Cape public hospitals on New Year’s Day

The New Year began with tiny cries and big smiles across the Western Cape, as 28 babies were born in public health facilities on New Year’s Day.

Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness said 17 boys and 11 girls were safely delivered from midnight on January 1.

The department noted that the total number of births may increase as additional deliveries are reported. Figures were correct as at 1.30pm on January 1, 2026.

The first baby of the year, a boy weighing 3.8kg, was born exactly at midnight at Mowbray Maternity Hospital to mother Geneva Claasen. Just three minutes later, another baby boy, weighing 3.5kg, was delivered at Paarl Hospital. The third baby of the year was a girl born at Stellenbosch Hospital at 1.38am, weighing 3.2kg.

The department encouraged parents to make use of local clinics to support their babies’ early development, adding that the first 1 000 days of a child’s life are critical for long-term health and overall well-being. Clinic visits provide access to essential services such as immunisations, health education, and routine health checks.

Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger indicated that the arrival of the first babies of 2026 served as a reminder of the importance of early childhood care.

“As we step into a new year, we celebrate the first precious lives born in 2026. We are reminded that the earliest moments of life shape everything that follows. Our focus is on giving every child a strong and healthy start through quality care, support and skilled healthcare teams,” she said.

The department congratulated all parents and caregivers on the safe delivery of their babies and thanked healthcare workers, particularly midwives, who worked on New Year’s Day to provide care.