Kenya has made significant strides in improving access to medical oxygen with the delivery of a new consignment of oxygen accessories, funded by the Global Fund under the COVID-19 Response Mechanism. This milestone marks a key step in strengthening the country’s health systems and expanding access to essential oxygen therapy nationwide.
The consignment, which includes 470 multiparameter patient monitors, 10,000 wall outlet flowmeters, and 612 oxygen analysers, will be distributed across Kenya’s 47 counties, reinforcing the oxygen delivery capacity in healthcare facilities. This new shipment builds upon previous supplies of over 20,000 oxygen cylinders, contributing to a comprehensive oxygen ecosystem across the country.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, emphasized that this initiative is an important part of the government’s ongoing efforts to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Kenya. He explained that ensuring access to reliable and safe oxygen therapy is critical for the treatment of patients with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, pneumonia, and COPD, as well as for newborns and patients in critical care.
“These supplies are essential for effective oxygen therapy, enabling healthcare providers to manage patient care by delivering oxygen at the correct flow rate and minimizing complications,” said Hon. Duale. He further underscored the importance of ensuring sustainability by committing to regular calibration of the equipment, and ongoing capacity building for healthcare workers to manage the equipment.
In addition to the health ministry’s efforts, local county governments and health facilities were urged to allocate resources for the preventive maintenance of the equipment, ensuring long-term functionality. The government continues to prioritize creating a sustainable healthcare system to guarantee that every Kenyan, regardless of their location, has access to the necessary medical resources.
This development has been made possible through the collaboration of the Global Fund, Amref Health Africa, and various stakeholders committed to ensuring equitable healthcare access. The success of this initiative is viewed as a critical step in Kenya’s progress toward achieving UHC and ensuring that life-saving oxygen is available at all levels of the healthcare system.
