Karonga district director of health services David Sibale says the construction of an oxygen plant at Karonga District Hospital is expected to improve healthcare service delivery for patients needing oxygen.
The project, funded by the World Bank, is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
Sibale said the bank allocated K1.8 billion for the construction of the facility and purchase of the gas plant accessories.
He said the council spends over K1.6 million to travel to Nkhoma Mission Hospital in Lilongwe to fill 40 oxygen gas cylinders which last three months.
Said Sibale: “Currently, the hospital relies on external suppliers such as Afrox and Nkhoma Mission Hospital in Lilongwe for oxygen, incurring substantial transportation costs and delays.
“The new facility will produce medical-grade oxygen on-site, ensuring a reliable supply for critical cases such as respiratory illnesses, surgical procedures and emergency care.”
He said the project will also provide a lorry to ferry oxygen to other districts.
Health rights activist
Matemba called on government to ensure that resources for the repair and maintenance of the plant should be readily available for Karonga and the Northern Region to benefit from the project in the long-run.
When operational, the plant will not only serve Karonga District Hospital but also benefit the Northern Region which has no gas plant
