Mali Nonuplets Turn 5, Ready to Start School Together

Five years ago, Halima Cissé and Abdelkader Arby welcomed nine babies in a single birth, making medical history. Today, all five girls and four boys are thriving, giggling, and getting ready to walk into kindergarten together.

The Mali family's nonuplets hold the Guinness World Record for most children delivered at a single birth to survive. Mohammed VI, Elhadji, Oumar, Bah, Kadidia, Fatouma, Hawa, Adama, and Oumou recently celebrated their milestone birthday at home with their parents and seven-year-old big sister.

"The children are doing very well," Halima said. "They are healthy, active, and full of joy."

Doctors originally thought Halima was carrying seven babies when she flew to Morocco for specialized care in 2021. The medical team discovered two more during advanced scans, bringing the total to nine little miracles.

Born at just 30 weeks via C-section, each baby weighed between one and two pounds. They spent 19 months in Morocco receiving expert care before finally going home to Mali.

Now 30, Halima says managing a household of ten children comes with unique joys and challenges. The nonuplets share toys, swap stories, and occasionally bicker like any siblings, but their bond runs deep.

"Like all siblings, they sometimes have small disagreements, but they are very united and caring towards one another," she explained. "Some are more energetic and expressive, while others are calmer and more observant."

Sunny's Take

Watching nine children reach kindergarten age together feels like witnessing something truly special. These aren't just statistics or medical miracles anymore—they're kids with distinct personalities, favorite games, and matching birthday outfits.

Their story represents hope for families facing complicated pregnancies and showcases what dedicated medical care can achieve. Halima proudly holds up the family's Guinness World Records certificate in recent photos, surrounded by her growing children.

"We would like to highlight how proud we are to represent Mali and Africa," Halima said. "It is a great honour for our family, and we are thankful for the continued support from around the world."

Starting school marks a major transition for any family, but imagine coordinating backpacks, lunch boxes, and first-day jitters times nine. Halima says she's focusing on their education while making sure they continue enjoying their childhood.

Nine siblings are about to discover the alphabet, make new friends, and experience the magic of learning together.