Online Reporter
Peter Matika, Zimpapers Writer
A TOTAL of 50 babies were born in Bulawayo’s two largest referral hospitals, Mpilo Central Hospital and the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH), on Christmas Day.
At UBH, the maternity ward recorded 23 births, with its Maternity Ward Matron Nobuhle Thaka saying the period was both demanding and fulfilling for staff on duty.
“On Christmas Day, we recorded the birth of 12 girls and 11 boys. Of these, four girls and five boys were delivered through caesarean section, while the remainder were born through normal deliveries,” she said.
Among the Christmas Day arrivals at UBH, one newborn drew particular attention — a baby boy weighing 4,7 kilogrammes. The child was born to Patience Dzindikwa, whose delivery was described as remarkable by both staff and fellow mothers.
Cradling her son, Dzindikwa said the family had named the baby Miracle, reflecting the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his birth.
“We named him Miracle because everything about his birth feels like a miracle. From his weight to the way he was delivered, he has amazed us all,” she said.
Dzindikwa said the experience had been especially memorable, despite this being her fourth child.
“The treatment I received was excellent. From the moment I went into labour and was rushed here, the staff were professional, caring and supportive. Giving birth on Christmas Day feels very special and symbolic,” she said.
She added that the family would forever associate Christmas with the birth of their son.
“Every Christmas will remind us not only of the festive season, but of the day our Miracle came into our lives. His older siblings were all born in January, but he arrived on Christmas Day in his own unique way,” she said.
At Mpilo Central Hospital, Christmas Day was equally busy, with 27 babies delivered. Hospital public relations officer Norma Mabhena said Mpilo recorded 11 boys and 16 girls.
“The largest baby, a girl weighing 4,520 kilogrammes, was delivered via caesarean section. The smallest baby, a boy weighing 1,140 kilogrammes, was delivered through normal delivery and is currently receiving specialised care,” said Mrs Mabhena.
She said a total of 17 babies were delivered normally, while 10 were born through caesarean section.
“Our medical staff worked tirelessly throughout Christmas Day to ensure the safety and well-being of both mothers and newborns. It was a demanding day, but also one filled with joy and fulfilment as families welcomed their babies,” she said.
For nurses and midwives on duty, Christmas was spent attending to expectant mothers, offering reassurance and ushering new lives into the world, rather than celebrating with their own families.
While some mothers said they had hoped to spend the day at home with loved ones, the joy of childbirth quickly overshadowed any disappointment.
First-time mother Patience Tshabalala expressed gratitude for the safe delivery of her baby boy, Terrence.
“I was hoping for a girl, but I am happy and grateful. I cannot wait to watch my son grow,” she said.
