UNICEF Hands Over First Solar-Powered Medical Oxygen Plant in Africa to Oyo State. -

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) handed over the first-ever solar-powered Medical Oxygen Plant in Africa, alongside a Level 2 Newborn Unit, to the Oyo State government at Jericho Specialist Hospital, Ibadan.

This initiative aims to significantly reduce neonatal mortality rates and support the launch of the Oyo State Strategy for the Scale-Up of Medical Oxygen in Health Facilities.

UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, presented the life-saving facility to the Oyo State government during a special event at the hospital.

She acknowledged the project’s collaboration with various partners, including IHS Towers, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the governments of Canada and Norway, emphasizing that this achievement exemplifies the power of collaboration in securing the health and well-being of mothers and children within the state.

“The installation of the solarized medical oxygen plant is a groundbreaking accomplishment,” Munduate stated.
“Oxygen is a critical, life-saving intervention, especially for newborns and children battling pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.”

This facility provides a crucial lifeline for newborns. Munduate highlighted the high rates of neonatal mortality in Nigeria, stating, “Here in Oyo State, we have approximately 35 newborn deaths per every 1,000 births.”

She further announced the event’s purpose was also to launch the Oyo State Strategy for the Scale-Up of Medical Oxygen in Health Facilities in the state.

“This strategy is a comprehensive roadmap designed to ensure every health facility in the state possesses the necessary resources for providing medical oxygen,” Cristian Munduate explained. “It outlines steps for capacity building, infrastructure development, supply chain management, and sustainable financing mechanisms.”

Moreover , she said explained that these facilities, along with the strategy, are vital in enhancing health outcomes and align with UNICEF’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

Mr. Ayobami Adisa, the Representative of IHS Towers, commended the state government for facilitating this life-saving innovation within Oyo State. He described the oxygen plant as a symbol of solidarity, resilience, hope, and their dedication to community health.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State commissioned the facility for public use and expressed his gratitude to UNICEF and the other partners for making the project a reality. He emphasized how the project aligns with the administration’s healthcare development policies.

Governor Makinde expressed confidence that the Oxygen Plant would significantly improve the lives of countless state residents. He urged the General Hospital Management to utilize the plant judiciously.

Earlier, Dr. Oluwasherimi Ajetumobi, the Commissioner for Health, commended UNICEF for training state-based engineers to manage the facility. Additionally, she highlighted the profound impact the launch of the Oyo State Oxygen Strategy would have on countless lives.
Credit: Femi Ojo