JOY was the order of the day for mums in this province.
A grand total of 112 newborns entered the world across North West Province as the New Year's celebrations unfolded.
In the Dr Kenneth Kaunda district, 19 babies made their debut, comprising 12 boys and 7 girls.
Bojanala witnessed the arrival of 36 newborns, with 23 girls and 13 boys adding to the joy.
Ngaka Modiri Molema district contributed 34 newborns to the provincial count, consisting of 19 boys and 15 girls.
Meanwhile, Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district welcomed 11 boys and 12 girls into the world.
The first baby of the year, a girl, was born at the stroke of midnight at Boitekong clinic outside Rustenburg.
Notably, a 16-year-old mother gave birth to a baby girl weighing 1300g at Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex.
ALSO READ: New Year bundles of joy come with perfect mix
Three boys were delivered at Job Shimakana Tabane Hospital in Rustenburg at 11am.
Mum Keletso Nokane (35) from Seraleng outside Rustenburg said it was a blessing to give birth on this day. She said the birth of her third child on New Year's Day was a wonderful surprise because she didn't expect it.
"I was expecting to give birth around 6 January, but I'm happy to start the year with such a precious moment.
"I will cherish this moment forever, and I thank God that everything went well," she said.
Itumeleng Setuke (38) from Lefaragatlha, near Rustenburg, said she was overjoyed that her son was born healthy and that there were no complications.
"He's my fourth baby and I'm grateful to God for the gift of life," Itumeleng said.
She said she had not yet named her son because she wanted him to have a unique name.
"I'm still overwhelmed with emotion because it was a surprise. I never thought I'd have him on New Year's Day," he said.
Acting CEO at Job Shimakana Tabane Hospital, George Maisela, said they were privileged to welcome three healthy babies on New Year's Day, adding that they were grateful for the blessings.
