SA infant mortality rate declines

Ajay, the eldest of the three Gupta brothers who allegedly siphoned billions of rand from the SA government allegedly because of their proximity to influential politicians, including former president Jacob Zuma, has been spotted in Dubai and India since being declared a fugitive from justice in South Africa.

Masutha said the UAE ambassador “expressed a strong desire on the part of his government of ensuring that we put in place all the necessary systems to facilitate this type of co-operation between our two countries” because of the number of South Africans currently residing in Dubai.

However, Masutha said there was no need to directly intervene in talks between law enforcement agencies in South Africa, Dubai and India, as he was under the impression the matter was being dealt with adequately.

“At this stage, I don’t think I have a reason to be concerned. I do not see the need for me to make any specific intervention at this stage because I’m convinced that the relevant agencies have the matter in hand.” – African News Agency (ANA) THE Institute of Race Relations revealed that South Africa’s infant mortality rate was at its lowest in almost two decades, having fallen by 32% between 2002 and 2017.

Analyst Tawanda Makombo said the statistics revealed telling gains in the health sector, but argued that more could be done.

“The Department of Health must intensify public awareness efforts and persuade more pregnant women to visit health practitioners for check-ups before and after giving birth, as this is essential for their babies’ health.” Makombo said the improvement aligned with a sharp increase in antenatal first visits by pregnant women. – African News Agency (ANA)