Zambia’s National Heart Hospital launches Oxygen Plant to boost healthcare delivery

ZAMBIA—Zambia’s National Heart Hospital has marked a significant milestone by commissioning its new Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant.

This development is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure nationwide.

The launch comes just months after the National Heart Hospital received recognition as the second-place winner in the Most Customer-Centric Public Institution category at the 2024 Africa Public Service Day Service Excellence Awards.

This achievement highlights the hospital’s dedication to providing high-quality care to the people of Zambia.

The newly commissioned oxygen plant is one of six planned nationwide, all aimed at strengthening healthcare services in different regions.

Serving as a central hub, this facility will provide oxygen to approximately 288 health facilities within Lusaka Province, significantly improving the quality of care available to patients.

This expansion is in line with the Presidential Directive to ensure that all health facilities are equipped with a Maternity Annex, an initiative that seeks to enhance maternal and neonatal healthcare across Zambia.

By addressing this critical aspect of the healthcare system, the government aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

The event was attended by the Honourable Minister Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, alongside Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services.

Dr. Chabwela Shumba, Senior Medical Superintendent at the National Heart Hospital, played a key role in hosting the distinguished guests. 

Reflecting on the journey, Dr. Shumba shared on LinkedIn that the hospital’s involvement in the oxygen initiative began in 2021, when it was operationalized as a COVID-19 treatment center during the Delta variant wave.

During this time, the importance of a reliable and high-quality oxygen supply became painfully clear, as it was critical to saving lives during the height of the pandemic.

In response to this need, Dr. Shumba contributed as a resource person to the development of Zambia’s National Oxygen Strategic Plan, which has been made possible through the support of international partners.

 The Global Fund led the funding effort, with UNOPS taking on the role of implementing partner.

Additional contributions from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and PATH have also been vital to the project’s success.

Dr. Shumba emphasized the importance of building resilient healthcare systems in Zambia, noting his pride in being part of a collaborative effort that has brought this essential infrastructure to the country.

He expressed gratitude for the partners who made the oxygen plant a reality, stating that the project reflects the power of teamwork and shared dedication to improving the health and well-being of Zambian communities.

This initiative represents not just a technological advancement but a symbol of Zambia’s commitment to improving healthcare for its citizens and ensuring that essential services like oxygen are more accessible and reliable across the nation.

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