Gauteng MEC to Launch Expanded Neonatal ICU at Soweto Hospital

Nkomo-Ralehoko will also advocate for timely immunization, highlighting its role in protecting children from preventable diseases.

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, is set to celebrate the arrival of newborns while officially unveiling the newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto on Wednesday.

The hospital’s NICU has undergone significant renovations to increase its capacity from 18 to 30 beds. This expansion aims to improve the hospital’s ability to provide critical care to newborns requiring specialized medical attention.

Celebrating New Life and Raising Awareness

The MEC’s visit will include engaging with mothers and families of the newborns. She will emphasize the importance of immediate birth registration, facilitated by the Department of Home Affairs offices located in all public hospitals across Gauteng.

Nkomo-Ralehoko will also advocate for timely immunization, highlighting its role in protecting children from preventable diseases. “Timely vaccination is crucial for the health and wellbeing of our children,” the MEC said in a statement.

Christmas Day Birth Statistics

The celebration comes just days after the Department of Health reported that over 1,360 babies were born in public health facilities across South Africa on Christmas Day. This figure reflects a decrease compared to 1,708 births in 2023 and 1,414 births in 2022.

Among the Christmas deliveries were six sets of twins, marking a special milestone for families and healthcare workers alike.

Enhancing Neonatal Care in Soweto

The expanded NICU at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital addresses the increasing demand for specialized neonatal services in the region. The additional 12 beds will enable the hospital to treat more critically ill newborns, ensuring they receive life-saving care.

Healthcare workers at the hospital have expressed their gratitude for the upgrade, noting that the improved facilities will enhance their ability to provide comprehensive care. The NICU is equipped with advanced medical technology and a dedicated team of specialists to address a wide range of neonatal conditions.

Future Plans and Community Engagement

The Gauteng Department of Health is committed to further strengthening maternal and child healthcare services across the province. Plans include:

• Upgrading facilities in other public hospitals to meet growing healthcare demands.
• Increasing awareness about maternal and child health through community outreach programs.
• Encouraging early childhood development initiatives in collaboration with other government departments.

A Call to Action for Parents

During her visit, Nkomo-Ralehoko will encourage parents to take proactive steps in ensuring their children’s health and wellbeing, including:

• Registering their newborns immediately after birth.
• Adhering to vaccination schedules.
• Seeking regular medical check-ups for their children.

The expanded NICU marks a significant milestone in improving neonatal care and reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health of the youngest members of the community.

The MEC’s visit symbolizes a moment of hope and celebration for families and healthcare workers as they welcome the first steps of the next generation.