The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Enhancing access to life-saving medical oxygen in Zambia
UNOPS, The Global Fund and Zambia's Ministry of Health are working together to construct medical oxygen plants for hospitals around the country to support healthcare delivery.
This article was originally published on 6 November 2024 and has been updated to reflect recent project developments.
Latest updates
21 June 2025
Minister of Health Dr. Elijah J. Muchima commissioned the fourth of six oxygen production plants being rolled out nationwide at Kalindawalo General Hospital.
The plant features a complete in-hospital oxygen distribution system and reliable standby power for uninterrupted oxygen supply.
16 June 2025
A new oxygen production plant has been commissioned by Minister of Health Dr. Elijah J. Muchima at Kabwe Central Hospital. Serving healthcare institutions in the Central Province and surrounding regions, the plant is providing a reliable and sustainable supply of medical oxygen for treating respiratory and emergency medical conditions.
The commissioning ceremony marks the successful completion of three of six oxygen production facilities being established across the country by UNOPS with $10.4 million in funding from The Global Fund.
"This plant breathes new life into Kabwe Central Hospital. It is a symbol of hope, a promise that every breath, every life, and every Zambian matters," said Minister of Health Dr. Elijah J. Muchima.
"The commissioning of the Kabwe Central Hospital oxygen plant marks another important step in delivering reliable, life-saving medical infrastructure across Zambia," said UNOPS Director for East and Southern Africa Rainer Frauenfeld.
Read more here.
7 May 2025
Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, Zambia's Minister of Health, presided over the official commissioning of a new medical production oxygen plant at Kasama General Hospital.
Located in Northern Province, the newly commissioned medical oxygen production plant will serve healthcare institutions within and beyond the region, ensuring a stable and sustainable supply of oxygen for the treatment of respiratory and emergency conditions.
UNOPS has managed the procurement and construction of two oxygen plants so far. A total of six plants will be developed with funding provided by The Global Fund.
Read more here.
Using $10.4 million in funding from The Global Fund, UNOPS is constructing medical oxygen plants at Chinsali General Hospital (Muchinga Province), Kabwe Central Hospital (Central Province), Kalindawalo General Hospital (Eastern Province), Kasama General Hospital (Northern Province) and St. Paul’s Mission Hospital-Nchelenge (Luapula Province).
An oxygen plant at National Heart Hospital in Chongwe District has already been handed over. It will provide a reliable and sustainable supply of medical-grade oxygen to healthcare facilities around Lusaka.
Investing in healthcare infrastructure is not just about addressing immediate needs, it is about building a sustainable future for all.
"This facility and others across the country will serve as a hub of hope, empowering healthcare workers and equipping them with the tools necessary to provide quality care,” he added.
"The COVID-19 pandemic caused a tremendous surge in the need for medical oxygen and increased the global recognition to invest in medical oxygen supply and delivery systems,” said Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, Minister of Health.
The project is part of broader efforts to strengthen Zambia's healthcare infrastructure and ensure that essential medical supplies are accessible to all citizens.
Read more here.
