New oxygen facility to save millions at Singida hospital

By Thobias Mwanakatwe , The Guardian
Published at 06:00 AM Jul 25 2025
Medical oxygen
Photo: File
Medical oxygen

THE Singida Regional Referral Hospital is set to save millions of shillings in medical oxygen costs following the completion of a new oxygen generation project and the installation of specialised production equipment.

Acting medical officer in Charge, Dr David Mwasota, announced during a briefing to the national Torch race leader, Ismail Ali Ussi, during a recent visit.

Dr Mwasota said the project—expected to cost more than 1.4bn/- will dramatically reduce the hospital’s current oxygen expenditure, which can reach up to 9m/- per month when sourced externally.

The initiative, implemented under the Ministry of Health and funded by the Global Fund, will ensure a steady supply of oxygen for patients requiring emergency care—helping to save lives while reducing operational costs.

“The project will benefit over two million people in Singida Region by guaranteeing the availability of medical oxygen at all times for patients in critical need,” said Dr Mwasota.

He added that the project will also boost hospital income through the sale of surplus oxygen to neighbouring facilities, while reducing maintenance costs and prolonging the life of hospital oxygen equipment that frequently breaks down due to overuse.

Commending the effort, Ismail Ali Ussi praised the government for investing in the health sector and ensuring improved access to quality medical services for citizens.

During his tour of the Mungumaji road project, Ussi also applauded the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) for the delivery a road that met construction standards and value for money—stating it deserved a full launch, not just a foundation stone.