In an extraordinary medical milestone that captured the attention of the world, Halima Cissé, a young woman from Mali, achieved a historic and rare feat when she safely delivered nine babies — nonuplets — in Morocco. The remarkable birth, which took place in May 2021, continues to be regarded as one of the most astonishing achievements in modern medical history.
Cissé, who originally received prenatal care in Mali, was transferred to a specialized medical facility in Casablanca after doctors realized she was carrying multiple fetuses. The pregnancy itself was considered extremely high-risk, prompting an international medical collaboration to ensure the mother’s and babies’ safety. Specialists in neonatology, obstetrics, and gynecology worked together to prepare for the unprecedented delivery.
On the day of the birth, the medical team successfully performed a carefully arranged Cesarean section, bringing five girls and four boys into the world. Each newborn weighed significantly less than average, as expected in high-order multiple births, but with immediate professional care, the team ensured their stabilization and survival. In the months that followed, the babies continued to grow stronger — a rare success story in the field of neonatal medicine.
Health experts worldwide praised the achievement as nothing short of miraculous. Cases of nonuplets are almost unheard of, and survival rates are historically extremely low. The successful delivery and continued well-being of all nine children placed Halima Cissé’s case in the record books, officially marking it as a world-record-breaking birth.
For Mali, the event became a moment of immense national pride, symbolizing hope, strength, and the remarkable possibilities of modern healthcare. For Morocco, it highlighted the nation’s medical expertise and capacity to handle complex international cases.
Today, all nine children — a group that has fascinated millions — are reported to be healthy and thriving, continuing to inspire awe across the globe. Their story remains a profound reminder of medical advancement, human resilience, and the extraordinary surprises life can bring.
