Gr 12 learner gives birth to triplets at Mankweng Hospital
Social workers will be sent to the young mother to see what support they can offer her.
LIMPOPO – An 18-year-old girl is contemplating her future with a mixture of exhilaration and anxiety after she gave birth to triplets at the Mankweng hospital on August 15.
The young mother, Rothembani Moshapo, is a Gr 12 learner at Songozwi Secondary School at Madodonga village in the Kutama area.
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She says she was shocked when the doctor told her she was about to deliver not one, but three bundles of joy.
“I was so scared when the doctor told me I was pregnant with triplets. Twins are unexpected, but triplets are something else.”
The triplets (three girls) were named Ndiwabo, Ndiwanga and Ndiwashu.
“I’ve had time to get used to it and thank God for this gift. They are my first babies and I’m happy that they are healthy. I also want to thank the doctor and midwives for the support during my children’s birth. Still, I don’t know how I’m going to be able to take care of all of them,” she said.
To Rothembani, the fact that they only have child support grant to rely on is problematic.
“My boyfriend is very supportive, but he relies on piece jobs for a living. How can we buy clothes and formula milk for three babies on these meagre grants? I don’t want to be a burden to my family by bringing in more kids and add to the problems they already have. I realise we are going to need help from outside so that I can look after my children properly,” she said.
Rothembani is optimistic that she will complete matric so that she can further her studies.
“I will decide what to study after I have completed Gr 12, but I am certain I will be able to build a future for my children.”
Social Development communications officer Adele van der Linde said she would send social workers to the young mother to see what support they can offer.
