Grand Gedeh County Health Team Rallies Public Support to Sustain New OxygenPlant

By Esther Natelia Scott

The Grand Gedeh County Health Team (GGCHT) is appealing to citizens,
businesses, and development partners to support the long-term operation of the
county’s newly inaugurated oxygen plant a critical addition to the region’s
healthcare infrastructure.

The call was made during a community engagement and fundraising event held
on the grounds of Martha Tubman Memorial Hospital in Zwedru. The event brought
together local leaders, health professionals, and residents, all unified by a
common goal: to ensure the continuous operation of the life-saving facility.

Constructed by Playing Liberia with funding from the Global Fund and
technical facilitation by Partners In Health (PIH), the oxygen plant is
designed to produce medical-grade oxygen for emergency and critical care
services. Its establishment is expected to drastically reduce the need for
patient transfers to far-off hospitals in Tappita and Maryland Counties transfers
that often pose logistical and financial burdens on both families and the
health system.

“This plant is a game changer for our county,” said Isaac Zulu, County
Health Services Administrator. “It will save countless lives, but for it to
function effectively, we need ongoing support from all sectors of society.”

Zulu praised the collaborative effort behind the project, acknowledging
Superintendent Alex C. Grant, community leaders, civil society organizations,
health workers, and the local media. However, he also noted that while the
Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has begun operations in Zwedru,
compatibility issues have delayed the plant’s connection to the national grid,
creating additional operational challenges.

During the event, community members demonstrated their commitment by
pledging financial contributions. A total of LD$130,000 and USD$70
was raised. Superintendent Grant also pledged LD$100,000 on
behalf of the county government, reinforcing public sector support.

“This is about saving lives,” Superintendent Grant emphasized. “When we come
together as a community to support our health system, we create a safer,
healthier future for everyone.”

The CGHT is currently working on a sustainability plan to ensure the
long-term viability of the oxygen plant. The team continues to encourage public
engagement, stressing that the facility’s success depends on shared
responsibility and collective ownership.