Kenya strengthens health system with new oxygen accessories funded by Global Fund

KENYA—The Ministry of Health in Kenya has officially launched a shipment of oxygen accessories under the Global Fund COVID-19 Response Mechanism, as part of the Oxygen Infrastructure Project.

This marks a key step forward in strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system and expanding access to oxygen therapy across the country, including remote areas.

Fully financed by the Global Fund, the shipment includes 470 multiparameter patient monitors, 10,000 wall outlet flowmeters, and 612 oxygen analyzers.

These critical supplies will be distributed to healthcare facilities in all 47 counties, complementing the 20,620 oxygen cylinders previously allocated nationwide.

During the flag-off event, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon Aden Duale, highlighted that this initiative reflects Kenya’s dedication to building a robust oxygen ecosystem and supporting its progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

He emphasized that this milestone improves the delivery of safe and reliable oxygen therapy to all Kenyans, from newborns to critically ill patients.

Hon Duale explained that oxygen accessories are vital for delivering oxygen safely and effectively.

They allow healthcare providers to tailor oxygen flow rates to each patient’s needs while reducing the risk of complications.

He added that the new equipment will enhance early oxygen treatment for newborns and help patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and other lung diseases.

The Cabinet Secretary also underlined the Ministry’s long-term commitment to maintaining this equipment, stating, “All devices will be calibrated every six months. We will continuously build capacity among health workers to ensure our biomedical engineers, pharmacists, and clinicians can properly manage and maintain these essential tools.”

He called on county governments and healthcare facilities to prioritize funding for regular preventive maintenance, calibration, and spare parts, which are crucial for the equipment’s continued reliability.

Hon Duale praised the Global Fund for financing this project and Amref Health Africa for their support in procurement.

He reaffirmed that strong partnerships, guided by government leadership, remain vital to achieving measurable progress in UHC.

 He concluded by affirming the goal of ensuring oxygen access is guaranteed not just in central hospitals, but in every ward, operating theatre, nursery, and ICU across the country, reaching even the most remote communities.

The flag-off ceremony included key figures such as Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Public Health Ms Mary Muthoni, Director-General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth, representatives from Amref Health Africa, and Mr Tom Menge, Head of the Health Products and Technologies Directorate, along with other senior officials.

This oxygen infrastructure enhancement represents a significant investment toward saving lives by addressing respiratory health needs nationwide.

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