Halima Cisse Nonuplets: Malian Mother Sets World Record With Rare Nonuplet Birth

Nine Babies Born Safely in Historic Medical Case

Halima Cissé from Mali made medical history when she delivered nine healthy babies—five girls and four boys—on May 4, 2021, at the Ain Borja clinic in Casablanca, Morocco. The 26-year-old’s nonuplet birth has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the first known case where all nine babies survived childbirth. Initially expecting septuplets, doctors discovered two additional babies during the cesarean section procedure, making the delivery even more extraordinary.

Specialized Care for High-Risk Pregnancy

Recognizing the complexity of the pregnancy, the Malian government arranged for Cissé to receive specialized medical care in Morocco, where she spent six weeks under close observation before delivery. The babies were born prematurely at 30 weeks, with birth weights ranging between 500 grams to 1 kilogram. Medical teams of 30 specialists worked tirelessly during the 5-hour procedure to ensure the safe delivery of all infants.

Surpassing Previous Multiple Birth Records

This remarkable case exceeded the previous record set by American Nadya Suleman, who gave birth to octuplets in 2009. The successful delivery and survival of all nine babies represents a significant medical milestone, demonstrating advances in neonatal care for multiple births. The nonuplets spent several months in incubation before being strong enough to leave the hospital, with doctors closely monitoring their development milestones.