Story by Tichaona Kurewa
HEALTHCARE delivery in Matabeleland North Province is set for a major boost following the completion of a medical oxygen plant at Lupane Provincial Hospital, a development expected to improve access to life-saving treatment and reduce operational costs for health institutions.
The facility, established through a partnership between the Government of Zimbabwe and UNICEF at a cost of approximately US$500 000, has been fully installed and is now awaiting commissioning.
Once operational, the plant is expected to provide a reliable supply of medical oxygen to health facilities across the province, addressing longstanding challenges associated with transporting oxygen from Bulawayo to distant districts.
Provincial Medical Director for Matabeleland North, Dr Admire Kuretu said installation of the plant and supporting infrastructure had been completed, with electrification the only remaining requirement before operations commence.
“The physical installation of the oxygen plant machinery and associated infrastructure at Lupane Provincial Hospital is complete. All major components are in place and assembled. We are now awaiting electrification, which is the only outstanding component. The plant will serve all seven districts in Matabeleland North Province, while neighbouring provinces will also benefit. It is a high-output facility capable of producing 400 litres of oxygen per minute.”
Dr Kuretu said the facility would significantly improve access to medical oxygen, particularly for districts located far from Bulawayo.
“We believe this project will be a game changer in the way our health institutions operate,” he said.
Traditional leaders have also welcomed the development, describing it as a critical investment in the province’s healthcare system.
Chief Mabhikwa, Ms Zanele Khumalo said the project would strengthen the hospital’s ability to provide essential medical services.
“The installation of an oxygen plant at Lupane Provincial Hospital is a vital initiative aimed at enhancing the hospital’s capacity to provide life-saving medical oxygen, particularly for patients suffering from respiratory illnesses and those requiring critical care,” she said.
The Special Advisor to the President responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Jorum Gumbo toured the facility on Wednesday and praised the progress made.
“The completion of the oxygen plant is a particularly significant achievement. The facility has the capacity to serve the entire province, reducing healthcare costs while enhancing the availability of life-saving medical oxygen,” he said.
Medical oxygen is essential for surgical procedures, emergency treatment, intensive care services and the management of respiratory illnesses. Once commissioned, the Lupane facility is expected to improve healthcare delivery across Matabeleland North and neighbouring provinces while supporting the government’s efforts to modernise the health sector.
