The police in Seshego, Limpopo, have arrested a 28-year-old man on statutory rape charges for allegedly fathering a Christmas baby with a minor. This comes after a 13-year-old girl gave birth at Seshego Hospital on 25 December 2024.

ARREST WELCOMED 

Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba welcomed the arrest. Ramathuba said the SAPS responded quickly after the hospital had raised concern over the teenager giving birth. "It is now our responsibility to ensure that the judiciary acts per the extent of the crime. Statutory rape is visible in many parts of our province, and we need to bring to a close such a sad chapter,' she said. The premier emphasised the importance of protecting children's rights and ensuring that justice is served. "The man is in custody in Seshego and will soon appear in court. We must remain vigilant and committed to preventing such heinous acts in our communities,' she added. Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed the arrest and said the suspect will appear before the Seshego Magistrates Court soon. 

90 TEENS DELIVERED BABIES ON CHRISTMAS DAY

Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale confirmed that more than 1360 babies were born at public health facilities across the country on Christmas Day, with 90 being from teenage mothers. According to Mohale, this is 300 fewer compared to 1708 babies delivered in 2023 and about 50 babies less compared to 1414 babies born in 2022. "The number of teen mothers has also decreased from 145 recorded in 2023 to just under 90 young mothers. This can be attributed to many interventions, including sexual reproductive health and healthy lifestyle campaigns and the rollout of youth-friendly zones in primary health facilities across the country to create an enabling environment for young people to access sexual and reproductive health services without waiting in queues with general customers,' Mohale said.