LISHIMPI Calls for Greater Oxygen Investment

The Ministry of Health has called for sustained investment and stronger collaboration to improve access to medical oxygen across the country.

The appeal comes as stakeholders commemorate World Oxygen Day under the theme, “Oxygen is Life.”

Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services KENNEDY LISHIMPI said the Ministry remains committed to maintaining oxygen plants established nationwide to ensure they remain operational and provide reliable access to medical oxygen.

Dr LISHIMPI was speaking during an aerobics programme held in Lusaka today.

He said Zambia must build on the investments already made, address remaining gaps and ensure progress in expanding access to medical oxygen is sustained.

Meanwhile, Dette Resources Foundation Executive Director JANE KALUBA said the Red Heart Campaign seeks to raise awareness about the importance of medical oxygen.

Ms KALUBA said the campaign is also aimed at dispelling the misconception that being placed on oxygen means a patient is nearing death, stressing that oxygen is a life-saving intervention that supports recovery and prolongs life.

And Zambia Coalition on Medical Oxygen Access Head of Communications SAMUEL MWANAKATWE said medical oxygen is an essential medicine, particularly for premature and sick newborns, women experiencing childbirth complications and patients with respiratory conditions.

Meanwhile, National Heart Hospital Head of Public Relations Dr CYNTHIA LEWIS urged members of the public to take precautions and avoid habits and activities that may expose them to respiratory illnesses.