Limpopo: President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Dr. Nyaweleni Tshifularo and his medical team for successfully separating conjoined twins in a groundbreaking operation at a rural hospital in Limpopo. The twins, born on January 28, 2026, at Mankweng Hospital, underwent a complex surgical procedure that marked a historic milestone for South Africa's public healthcare system.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa described the operation as 'unbelievable' and 'miraculous', noting that such highly specialized procedures are typically performed at leading tertiary hospitals. He expressed immense pride and happiness, stating that the entire country should be pleased with the successful undertaking of this complicated operation, akin to the renowned heart transplant by Dr. Christiaan Barnard in the 1960s.
The President emphasized the significance of the achievement, highlighting that advanced medical procedures can be successfully carried out in rural public hospitals. He congratulated Dr. Tshifularo and his team, acknowledging the difficulty of the operation and expressing national pride in their accomplishment.
President Ramaphosa also acknowledged the emotional impact of the procedure, noting that it has brought hope to the children's family. He praised the team as "miracle workers" and "heroes" throughout the country, emphasizing the improved life prospects given to the children.
In response, Dr. Tshifularo expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that the team was truly honored and overjoyed by the President's acknowledgment.
The twins were delivered by a 29-year-old mother, transferred from Maphutha Malatjie Hospital outside Phalaborwa after midwives detected the condition during an ultrasound. President Ramaphosa also commended Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba for ensuring the hospital was equipped with necessary resources for the operation.
During a media briefing, Premier Ramathuba expressed elation over the successful separation and praised the multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Tshifularo. She stated that the operation represents a historic moment for Limpopo, showcasing the potential of rural hospitals to perform high-scale operations.
Ramathuba highlighted the growing capacity, skill, and commitment of healthcare professionals in the province, emphasizing the need for continued investment in rural health facilities. She described the procedure as a collaborative effort of a dedicated multidisciplinary team, turning the seemingly impossible into a success.
The twins have been fully separated and are currently in stable condition, recovering in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit under close supervision.