Yemen, 11 October 2022 — The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) inaugurated 14 oxygen stations across Yemen this week. This life-saving intervention is the epitome of health systems strengthening and improving its resiliency in Yemen and is the fruit of the strategic partnership between WHO and IsDB. The establishment of the oxygen stations is part of a larger project: “IsDB Group Emergency Support for the COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan in the Republic of Yemen”, which was implemented in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of Health and Population, in close coordination with the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation.

“Currently, oxygen in health facilities and hospitals is supplied to patients in standalone cylinders, usually provided at the patient’s bedside. But with the launching of these 14 oxygen stations, thanks to the support of IsDB, a total production capacity of 2200 cylinders of oxygen per day is now possible,” said Dr. Adham Ismail Abdel-Moneim, WHO Representative in Yemen.

During the first half of 2022 alone, the hospitals where the oxygen stations were installed provided medical services for almost 400 000 patients, supporting an estimated 9000 major surgeries and 121 000 deliveries.

“The first oxygen station in the history of Socotra governorate was installed as part of this project. Not only will this station ease the suffering of people in Socotra, but it will also eliminate the burden and costs of transporting oxygen from the mainland to this island governorate,” continued Dr. Abdel-Moneim.

“This is a milestone intervention that will ensure that oxygen is produced in key health facilities across the country, ensuring millions of Yemenis receive medical oxygen continuously,” said Dr. Ilker Ersegun Kayhan, IsDB Operations Team Leader for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Yemen.

The stations will secure medical oxygen for 261 health facilities, benefiting an estimated 2.3 million people, ensuring vulnerable groups such as internally displaced persons, women of reproductive age, children under the age of five, and other groups with health conditions that may require oxygen support will be able to receive it.

“At Islamic Development Bank, we extend the support that looks future-forward, focused on longer-term sustainable solutions. Knowing that these stations will help many millions of men, women, and children in Yemen is astounding. The establishment of these stations ensures a legacy that will benefit the people of Yemen for years to come,” concluded Dr. Ilker Ersegun Kayhan.

At present, the Health Cluster in Yemen is only 13.3% funded, WHO and health partners continue to rely on support from partners to ensure the continuation of life-saving interventions in the country.