Kapenguria: Residents of West Pokot are set to enjoy quality healthcare services following the commissioning and handing-over of a modern oxygen generation plant at Kapenguria County Referral Hospital, a development expected to address persistent oxygen shortages and enhance patient care across the county.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project was implemented by Amref Health Africa with support from the Global Fund Covid-19 Response Mechanism. It is expected to significantly enhance access to medical oxygen and reduce the cost burden on health facilities across the county. Speaking during the handover ceremony, biomedical engineer Arnold Bett from Amref Health Africa stated that the installation delivers a complete and reliable oxygen supply system.
Bett noted, "This is a full-cycle project from oxygen generation to patient delivery. We have installed the plant, backup power systems, and upgraded electrical infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted operations." He emphasized that the facility has long struggled with the high cost of purchasing oxygen, which often strained their limited resources. With the new plant now operational, the hospital is expected to produce its own oxygen, cutting expenses and ensuring a steady supply for patients in need.
The new Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) plant boasts a production capacity of 580 liters per minute, a significant increase from the county's previous plant installed in 2026, which produced only 72 liters per minute. The upgraded system includes a cylinder refill station, an automatic manifold system, bedside oxygen outlets, and a backup generator for continuous supply.
West Pokot County Executive Committee Member for Health and Sanitation, Claire Parklea, described the development as a milestone for the region. She highlighted that the county has long struggled with the high cost of purchasing and transporting oxygen, and the new facility is expected to drastically cut expenses while ensuring a steady supply for patients requiring critical care. "Oxygen has been a major challenge in this county for many years. Today marks a turning point," she stated. "This plant will greatly improve service delivery and patient outcomes."
Parklea also disclosed that the project extends beyond Kapenguria County Referral Hospital, with a second oxygen plant installed at Kacheliba Sub-County Hospital. Additionally, five other facilities, including Alale, Chepareria, Ortum Mission Hospital, and Lomut, have been equipped with oxygen piping and manifold systems. She mentioned that these facilities have received essential equipment such as oxygen flow meters, oxygen analyzers to monitor purity, and patient monitors to support clinical care.
Hillary Kosgei, director of Debra Limited Company, which carried out the installation, remarked that the plant represents a major advancement in healthcare infrastructure. "Medical oxygen is classified as an essential medicine. This plant will support not only this hospital but also surrounding facilities and neighboring counties," he said. Kosgei added that the company will continue to provide technical support, including staff training and maintenance, to ensure sustainability.
County officials have pledged to safeguard and maintain the facility, expressing optimism that the investment will strengthen emergency response, reduce costs, and ultimately save lives. "This is a project we are proud of," Parklea said. "We will ensure it serves our people for many years to come."