By Dorothy Musyoka
In a decisive move towards enhancing healthcare resilience, the Ministry of Health is spearheading the development of a National Oxygen Access Roadmap.
According to Kenya’s Ministry of Health (MOH) this initiative, born from the critical lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, seeks to address the existing gaps in the availability of medical oxygen across Kenya’s healthcare facilities.
“The Ministry of Health is leading a collaborative effort with key stakeholders to develop a national oxygen access roadmap in Kenya. This initiative, driven by lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to address gaps in the availability of medical oxygen across the country’s healthcare system. The plan is part of a broader global effort under the World Health Organization’s Global Oxygen Alliance,” stated MOH.
During a five-day workshop held in Machakos County brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from county governments, healthcare professionals, and international partners, to collaboratively identify challenges and devise strategies for sustainable oxygen delivery.
The discussions highlighted the need for regular maintenance training, consistent equipment monitoring, and a robust supply chain to ensure that medical oxygen is readily available where and when it is needed.
Dr. Tom Menge, Head of the Directorate of Health Products and Technologies at the Ministry of Health, underscored the importance of timely implementation of the roadmap.
The initiative is part of the World Health Organization’s Global Oxygen Alliance, a global movement to improve oxygen access in low- and middle-income countries.
Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH) Kenya, a leading health organization, played a significant role in facilitating the workshop, demonstrating its continued commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in Kenya.
As the roadmap takes shape, it is expected to establish a framework for sustainable access to medical oxygen nationwide, reinforcing Kenya’s healthcare system against future pandemics and emergencies.