One of the Limpopo conjoined twins has died

One of the male conjoined twins born at Mankweng Hospital in Limpopo on 28 January 2026 has sadly passed away.

The twins, who were joined at the abdomen, were born to a 29-year-old mother, with their condition only discovered during labour.

This led to an urgent transfer to Mankweng Tertiary Hospital outside Polokwane, where they received specialised medical care from birth.

ALSO READ: Limpopo government to build a house for conjoined twins

A highly intricate and life-changing surgical procedure was later performed to separate the twins. The operation was carried out by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians led by Professor Nyaweleni Tshifularo on 17 March.

**PUBLIC NOTICE**

According to the medical team, following the highly complex and delicate surgical separation, both babies developed severe sepsis, a serious infection that can affect multiple organs.

The team acted swiftly and provided the necessary treatment, including antibiotics and inotropic support in the intensive care unit.

Despite the tireless and dedicated efforts of the multidisciplinary medical team, the baby sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning due to multiple organ failure resulting from severe sepsis.

ALSO READ: Limpopo conjoined twins successfully separated

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba confirmed the devastating news on Friday.

“We are deeply saddened by this heart-breaking loss. On behalf of the Limpopo Provincial Government and the people of our province, we extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the mother and the family,” she said.

“No parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this profoundly difficult moment.”

“The Premier has appealed to members of the public and the media to respect the privacy, dignity and space of the grieving family, the surviving child and the healthcare workers who continue to provide care and support. Measures have been put in place at the facility to ensure calm and proper support for all involved.”