Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
A TOTAL of 12 babies were born at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital in Mutare during the recent festive season, specifically on Unity Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The hospital, which serves as the province’s referral hospital, welcomed the new arrivals during these major holidays.
Giving birth at Christmas can be a unique and special experience for several reasons — for Christian families, it can be seen as a blessing and a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas while for others it symbolises hope, joy, and new life, reflecting the true spirit of the holiday season.
Overall, giving birth at Christmas can add an extra layer of joy, love, and celebration to the holiday season.
The hospital matron, Sheila Chimbetete told The Manica Post that baby girls outnumbered boys, with seven girls and five boys born over the three-day period.
Matron Chimbetete reflected on the festive season, saying: “This festive season has been a joyful and busy time for us at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital.
“We welcomed one baby girl on Unity Day, while Christmas Day brought us four healthy babies — one boy and three girls. Boxing Day was the highlight, with seven babies delivered — four boys and three girls.
“Thankfully, all the babies and mothers are healthy, with no major complications during delivery. It’s always a privilege to be part of such special moments, especially during this time of year when families come together to celebrate.”
New Year’s Day was surprisingly quiet at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, with no births reported. However, Christmas Day was a different story.
Some mothers who gave birth on Christmas Day shared their surprise and delight in interviews.
Ms Perseverance Chinhaho, of Sakubva said she never expected to welcome her baby on Christmas Day.
“I didn’t imagine I would give birth on this special day, as my due date was not supposed to be on Christmas. I wasn’t expecting to give birth on Christmas Day, but I’m overjoyed that my daughter arrived on this special occasion.
“As my first child, it feels like a double blessing to celebrate her birth and Christmas simultaneously. We haven’t decided on a name yet, but we’re taking our time to choose one that holds deep meaning for her.
“I’ll forever cherish this moment and am grateful to God for this precious gift that has brought happiness to our family,” she said.
Mr Chipo Machongwe, whose wife delivered a baby boy at the hospital, said he was happy to hear that she had given birth to a bouncing baby boy on Christmas Day.
“When I received the news that my wife had given birth to a baby girl on Christmas Day, I was stunned. The timing feels miraculous, as we weren’t expecting her arrival until after Christmas. It’s a joyful surprise, and we feel blessed by God’s special gift on this sacred day.
“Our family has always treasured Christmas, but this year it holds a new and unforgettable significance. I’m overjoyed and can’t wait to hold my baby girl and introduce her to the rest of the family,” he said.
Mr Tinashe Muranda, another elated father, shared his surprise and gratitude.
“I was absolutely stunned when I heard my wife had given birth to a baby boy on Christmas Day.
“We had prayed for a healthy child, but receiving such a perfect Christmas gift exceeded our expectations. Having our son born on this special day makes it even more memorable, feeling like a sign of good things to come.
“We’re filled with gratitude and excitement, knowing that from next year onwards, December 25 will hold a new significance — not only as Christmas Day but also as our child’s birthday.
“I’m eager to bring him home to meet the rest of the family. This Christmas is truly one we’ll never forget,” he said.
