The Ministry of Health has flagged off a new consignment of oxygen equipment under the Global Fund COVID-19 Response Mechanism – Oxygen Infrastructure Project, marking a major step toward enhancing oxygen access and advancing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals.
Fully funded by the Global Fund, the shipment includes 470 multiparameter patient monitors, 10,000 wall outlet flowmeters, and 612 oxygen analysers. These will be distributed to health facilities in all 47 counties, complementing the 20,620 oxygen cylinders previously supplied across the country.
Speaking during the flag-off event on Tuesday, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale highlighted that the initiative reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to building a resilient and sustainable oxygen ecosystem. He noted that the new supplies will ensure timely oxygen therapy for patients in need, from newborns to those battling critical respiratory conditions.
“This milestone represents significant progress in strengthening our health systems and ensuring that every Kenyan—from newborns to patients in critical care—has access to safe and reliable oxygen therapy,” Duale said.
He added that the equipment will play a vital role in providing early oxygen therapy for newborns and supporting patients with respiratory distress, asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other breathing complications.
The CS also underscored the importance of sustainability and maintenance, announcing that all equipment will be calibrated every six months. The Ministry will continue to build capacity among health workers, biomedical engineers, pharmacists, and clinicians to manage and maintain the equipment effectively.
Duale urged county governments to allocate funds for preventive maintenance and spare parts to guarantee continued functionality. He further commended the Global Fund for its financial support and Amref Health Africa for procurement assistance, noting that strong partnerships anchored in government leadership are essential for achieving tangible UHC results.
