In a groundbreaking ceremony today, Hewatele marked a significant milestone with the launch of East Africa’s first state-of-the-art liquid oxygen manufacturing plant.
Located at the Tatu Industrial Park in Ruiru, Kiambu County, the new facility is set to meet the growing demand for medical-grade oxygen across the region.
The plant, which will be equipped with an advanced Cryogenic Medical Liquid Oxygen Air Separation unit, represents a major leap forward in strengthening healthcare systems in East Africa. With a substantial investment of $20 million USD, the project is supported by key development partners, including the U.S. Development Finance Corporation, the Finnish government through Finnfund, Grand Challenges Canada, the Soros Economic Development Fund, and the UBS Optimus Foundation of Switzerland.
This initiative aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals by ensuring a steady and reliable supply of high-quality oxygen to healthcare facilities throughout East Africa. The plant is expected to be a crucial asset in improving healthcare outcomes and emergency preparedness across the region.
Finnish Ambassador Pirkka Tapiola emphasized the importance of this collaboration in enhancing the oxygen supply chain and bolstering emergency preparedness. He noted that the partnership will play a critical role in ensuring that healthcare systems are better equipped to handle crises.
U.S. Ambassador Meg Whitman underscored the transformative impact this facility will have on healthcare in Kenya and the broader East African region. She highlighted that the plant will not only improve access to medical oxygen but also create jobs in a burgeoning industry.
Hewatele CEO Dr. Zulfiqar Wali added that the new plant will significantly reduce the cost of medical oxygen, benefiting both Kenya and its neighboring countries. “This facility will make high-quality oxygen more accessible and affordable, which is vital for the health and well-being of people across the region,” Dr. Wali said.
Upon completion, the plant will have the capacity to produce 20 tonnes of medical oxygen daily, supplying an estimated 300 healthcare facilities and potentially saving hundreds of lives. This development marks a critical step forward in ensuring that East Africa’s healthcare systems are better equipped to meet the needs of their populations.
