Indo-Ghana begins local liquid oxygen supply

Ghanaian hospitals have begun distributing liquid oxygen instead of cylinders, as Indo-Ghana Industries aims to improve supply reliability and reduce shortages. The company installed a cryogenic storage system at Lekma Hospital, capable of supplying oxygen for up to three months. Managing Director Varun Tyagi said the shift addresses logistical challenges and high costs associated with cylinder-based distribution.

Liquid oxygen storage increases capacity, allowing larger reserves and fewer deliveries. The company has supported hospitals in receiving and storing liquid oxygen, with additional infrastructure investments coming from development partners. Lekma's Head of Clinical Engineering, Saviour Demordzie, noted improved oxygen availability and reduced reliance on emergency cylinder deliveries.

The new system also provides higher purity oxygen, crucial for critical care. Indo-Ghana's Engineer Eduardo Bojador Bonifacio highlighted the system's efficiency in reducing manual handling and minimizing human error. The company produces about 10 tonnes of liquid oxygen daily at its Apollonia Industrial Enclave facility, with plans for further expansion.

Indo-Ghana aims to develop a hub-and-spoke distribution model, with central production sites and smaller filling stations closer to hospitals nationwide. However, challenges include delayed payments, rising electricity costs, and limited access to long-term financing. The company seeks to be recognized as a critical service provider to ensure support during power disruptions.

The Ministry of Health's national medical oxygen policy and use of telemetry systems will assist in monitoring consumption and planning supply management.