Health Committee Raises Alarm Over Non-Functional Oxygen Plant, Cancer Equipment at KNH

The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health has sounded the alarm over critical service gaps at **Kenyatta National Hospital**, the country’s largest referral facility, citing non-functional equipment, congestion, and operational challenges.

Led by **Hon. James Nyikal**, the committee conducted a fact-finding visit to key hospital departments. While acknowledging ongoing improvements, the MPs expressed concern over equipment breakdowns and a non-operational oxygen plant that is straining service delivery.

“This oxygen plant is actually a major issue. It is not operational. It is not functional. It is not producing even a litre of oxygen in a day,” said Dr. Nyikal. He noted that significant public funds had been invested in the facility, yet the plant remains idle.

The committee highlighted potential mismanagement during procurement, design, tendering, supervision, and payment processes. Dr. Nyikal emphasized that a working oxygen plant would not only serve KNH but could also supply other health facilities, reducing the need for costly external oxygen purchases.

KNH Acting Chief Executive Officer **Dr. Richard Leyisampe** explained that the hospital currently treats about 700 patients daily who require oxygen support, procured from sister institutions such as **Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital** and **Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital**, and urged MPs to support establishing a reliable on-site supply.

The committee also raised concerns over disruptions in cancer treatment after a **Linear Accelerator (LINAC)** machine broke down, forcing reliance on a cobalt machine. Dr. Nyikal said that some patients were missing necessary treatment, though repairs on the LINAC are expected to be completed within a week. He added that budget allocations are being explored to procure an additional LINAC.

Dr. Leyisampe revealed that the hospital normally treats about 100 cancer patients daily, but with the LINAC out of service, only 50 patients currently receive treatment. He expressed optimism that the machine would be back in operation soon.

Beyond equipment challenges, severe congestion in maternity wards was also highlighted. Dr. Nyikal linked this to dysfunction in lower-level health facilities, noting that late arrivals of expectant mothers are overwhelming KNH and contributing to avoidable maternal and neonatal deaths.

The committee also noted a shortfall in blood supply at the hospital, which currently relies heavily on donations from patients’ relatives. Plans were proposed to support the blood donation unit financially and enable public drives.

Congestion in the Accident and Emergency Department, now called the Trauma Unit, was flagged as a persistent issue, with many patients coming from within Nairobi who could be treated at primary care facilities. The committee recommended establishing a dedicated unit under the Primary Care Fund to manage such cases.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Nyikal commended KNH management for the prudent use of Sh1.1 billion allocated for refurbishment of key hospital floors, noting that Level Eight renovations have been completed satisfactorily, with Level Seven works expected to finish by April.

“We must say we are happy with what they have done. If they complete the remaining works as scheduled, then they have used the money we gave them well,” he said.