Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe government is stepping up efforts to secure medical oxygen supply for the country through a mix of infrastructure investments and strategic partnerships, a Cabinet Minister said on Tuesday.
Addressing a post Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Jenfan Muswere said the government noted significant progress in the national oxygen strategy, describing medical oxygen as “a critical supply for patient care in all public health facilities.”
He said the move is part of a broader plan to ensure long-term, stable oxygen availability across the country, especially during health emergencies or peak demand periods.
“Progress has already been made in developing oxygen supply systems at several hospitals, including Masvingo, Chipinge, Chivhu, Gokwe North, and Victoria Chitepo. Furthermore, in collaboration with partners, the Government of Zimbabwe is establishing oxygen production plants in Chinhoyi and Lupane, supporting a long-term shift towards national control and bulk supply capability,” he said.
Meanwhile, Muswere said the Government is also setting up oxygen production plants in Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West province, and Lupane in Matabeleland North province, working in collaboration with local firms.
The plants will form the backbone of bulk medical oxygen supply chain, and are expected to increase national control over a resource that proved crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, he added.
“This is about building a sustainable system that supports patients and frontline healthcare workers alike. The initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening public health infrastructure and ensuring that no Zimbabwean is left behind when it comes to essential medical care,” explained Muswere.
The investment strategy combines direct government funding with public-private partnerships, aiming to bolster both capacity and resilience in the healthcare sector, he said.
Muswere said these steps are part of a broader vision to build a more responsive and self-reliant health system, laying the groundwork for improved service delivery and better health outcomes nationwide.
New Ziana
