Karonga district to end oxygen shortages after new plant passes final test
Patients requiring oxygen therapy in Karonga District may soon receive faster and more reliable treatment following the successful final testing of a newly constructed oxygen gas plant at Karonga District Hospital.
For years, the district has struggled with inconsistent oxygen supplies, forcing health authorities to source the life saving gas from other districts a process that often delayed treatment for critically ill patients.
However, the new plant is expected to address these challenges and strengthen emergency healthcare services in the district.
The testing exercise, conducted on Monday, confirmed that the plant is fully operational and capable of producing medical-grade oxygen, according to the Director of Health Services for Karonga District Council, David Sibale.
Sibale said the successful test marked a major step toward ensuring that hospitals in the district have a reliable supply of oxygen for patients in need.
“During the exercise, 20 oxygen cylinders were filled within three hours, demonstrating the plant’s production capacity. Some of the cylinders have already been distributed to various wards at the hospital to support patient care,” he said.
He added that once the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi upgrades the power supply to 400 KVA, the plant will be able to consistently produce up to 20 oxygen cylinders every three hours.
Apart from filling oxygen cylinders, the plant will also supply piped oxygen directly to hospital wards, ensuring that patients who require urgent respiratory support can access oxygen without delay.
Sibale said the development represents a turning point in the district’s healthcare system, particularly in the management of critical conditions that require immediate oxygen therapy.
“In the past, we faced serious challenges because oxygen had to be transported from other districts. This sometimes affected how quickly we could respond to emergencies. With this plant, we will now have a steady and reliable supply,” he said.The facility is also expected to benefit neighbouring districts such as Chitipa, which often face similar challenges in accessing medical oxygen.
Health officials say the plant will help reduce the costs and time spent transporting oxygen from distant locations while also improving the district’s ability to respond to medical emergencies.
The oxygen plant was constructed with financial support from KfW Development Bank at an estimated cost of about US$1,846,000.
The project included the procurement of oxygen production equipment, construction of the plant building, the purchase of a delivery truck, and the training of hospital staff to operate and maintain the facility.
Health authorities believe the new facility will play a critical role in treating conditions such as severe pneumonia, complications during childbirth, and other medical emergencies that require oxygen therapy.
Once fully operational, the plant is expected to significantly improve patient care and strengthen healthcare services not only in Karonga District but also across parts of the Northern Region.
