The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has celebrated the arrival of 132 babies born at public health facilities across the province on New Year’s Day, marking a heartwarming start to 2026.

From midnight on 1 January, an equal number of boys and girls, 66 each, were safely delivered, bringing joy to families and communities throughout the province.

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The first baby of the year was born at exactly 00:00 at Mowbray Maternity Hospital. The baby boy, weighing 3.8 kilograms, was delivered to proud mother Geneva Claasen. Just three minutes later, at 00:03, another baby boy weighing 3.5 kilograms was born at Paarl Hospital. The third New Year’s baby was a girl born at Stellenbosch Hospital at 01:38, weighing 3.2 kilograms.

As the province celebrates the newest arrivals, the Department of Health and Wellness has encouraged parents and caregivers to make use of their local clinics to support their babies’ growth and development.

The department highlighted the importance of the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception, describing this period as critical for long-term health and well-being. Regular clinic visits during this time provide access to essential services such as immunisations, health education and routine check-ups, all aimed at giving children the strongest possible start in life.

Western Cape MEC of Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger said the New Year’s births serve as a reminder of the importance of early investment in children’s health.

“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,” Wenger said. “In the Western Cape, our focus is on giving every child a strong and healthy start through quality care, support and skilled healthcare teams. When we invest early, we help children grow, develop and thrive well into the future.”

The department also congratulated all parents and caregivers on the safe delivery of their babies and expressed gratitude to healthcare workers, particularly midwives, who worked on the public holiday to provide care.

“As we embrace a new year filled with possibility, let’s commit to giving our children the best possible beginning,” the department said. “Together, we can help every family and new life start well.”