Supplying High-Purity Helium to Africa — February 2025 Export Project

In February 2025, YIGAS successfully completed the export of high-purity helium cylinders to an African partner. This shipment marked a key step in extending YIGAS's global supply network and demonstrated our ability to serve customers in research, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing sectors across Africa.

Background: Demand for Helium in Africa

Across Africa, the demand for helium is steadily growing due to its critical role in MRI medical imaging, fiber optics manufacturing, leak detection, and cryogenic research. However, many regions face supply shortages, leaving local industries dependent on overseas imports. Our client, a distributor serving both laboratories and medical facilities, sought a reliable partner capable of delivering helium at consistently high purity levels.

Project Requirements

The client required helium with a purity level exceeding 99.999%, packaged in secure cylinders for safe transport and long-term storage. In addition to quality, they valued efficiency in delivery and technical documentation to meet local compliance standards.

YIGAS Tailored Solution

YIGAS approached this project as more than a transaction — it was a chance to support the advancement of local industries. Our solution included:

Custom Filling & Preparation

Cylinders were filled under stringent controls, with impurity levels verified using advanced gas chromatography.

Packaging & Safety Assurance

Cylinders were fitted with double-sealed valves and shock-resistant pallets to minimize risk during overseas transit.

Technical Documentation

Each cylinder was accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA), ensuring full traceability for healthcare and laboratory use.

Integrated Support

YIGAS provided handling guidelines and training material, helping the client’s end-users adopt best practices for helium storage and application.

Achieved Results

On-time delivery of the shipment to the designated African port, ensuring the client could immediately distribute to their end-users.

Improved supply security for hospitals and laboratories, allowing uninterrupted MRI operations and research activities.

The client reported enhanced confidence in offering helium-dependent services to their customers, strengthening their own market position.

Opened the door for broader cooperation, including potential imports of specialty gases such as xenon and neon for medical and scientific fields.

Client Perspective

The client highlighted that YIGAS was "not just a supplier, but a trusted partner who understands both the technical and practical aspects of helium distribution." This positive feedback reinforced our commitment to building long-term partnerships in Africa's growing industrial gas market.