Zim Invests in Oxygen Infrastructure

Oscar J. Jeke- Zim Now Reporter

Government has intensified efforts to improve medical oxygen availability and strengthen pharmaceutical regulation.

According to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, Cabinet received an update on the country’s medical oxygen supply and approved the principles to amend the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act—marking two major policy interventions in the health sector.

Medical oxygen remains a critical component in the delivery of healthcare, particularly in intensive care and emergency units across the country. Minister Muswere said the government is prioritising national infrastructure ownership to ensure long-term oxygen security.

“To ensure a stable oxygen supply, especially during times of high demand, the Government of Zimbabwe is investing in national infrastructure ownership through a combination of direct investments and partnerships with local firms,” he said.

Progress has already been recorded, with oxygen supply systems being developed at Masvingo, Chipinge, Chivhu, Gokwe North, and Victoria Chitepo hospitals. In addition, oxygen production plants are being established in Chinhoyi and Lupane as part of efforts to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.

“This initiative has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and healthcare workers alike, and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving the healthcare system,” Muswere added.

In a parallel development, Cabinet also approved principles for amending the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, which was first enacted in 1969. The amendments are intended to align Zimbabwe’s drug regulations with the African Model Law, which aims to protect the public from substandard and falsified medical products.

“The main intention of the amendment is to control the quality, safety, and efficacy of all medical products and allied substances,” said Minister Muswere.

The African Model Law provides non-prescriptive guidelines for African Union member states to strengthen their regulatory systems and frameworks.

The proposed changes are also aligned with the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe’s vision to be “an effective and efficient regulator of medical products and allied substances.”