The Kenyan government has taken a significant step in enhancing healthcare services with the recent procurement of new oxygen equipment, aimed primarily at improving the care of newborns and patients suffering from respiratory conditions. Health Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, announced the acquisition of oxygen accessories that are set to be distributed to county hospitals across the country.
In a statement on social media, the CS revealed that the new equipment is part of the Global Fund COVID-19 Response Mechanism Oxygen Infrastructure Project. The consignment includes 470 multiparameter monitors, 10,000 wall outlet flowmeters, and 612 oxygen analyzers. This addition to the existing stock of over 20,000 oxygen cylinders supplied to hospitals nationwide is expected to significantly boost Kenya’s oxygen infrastructure.
The new oxygen equipment aims to improve early respiratory care for newborns, as well as patients with conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By enhancing the delivery of oxygen therapy, the initiative will not only improve patient outcomes but also help in managing respiratory diseases more effectively in both urban and rural healthcare facilities.
This is part of the broader effort by the Kenyan government to improve the country’s health system and work towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The project has already seen the installation of 14 bulk oxygen tanks across various facilities, as well as the delivery of over 1.2 million kilograms of liquid oxygen. These advancements are expected to provide significant relief to hospitals struggling to meet the demand for oxygen, particularly in emergency situations.
To ensure the sustainability of the initiative, Health CS Aden Duale has called on county governments to allocate resources for the maintenance of the newly acquired equipment. He emphasized the importance of preventive maintenance and the need for skilled health personnel to operate the machinery effectively. The government will also prioritize regular calibration and continuous capacity building to ensure the longevity and functionality of the oxygen equipment.
This new development is expected to play a critical role in supporting Kenya’s healthcare infrastructure, ultimately benefiting countless patients, particularly those in need of immediate respiratory support.
