President of the Renal Patients Association of Ghana, Baffour Kojo Ahenkorah has called for the creation of a dedicated fund to support renal patients.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, he stated that the current system of funds being paid directly to institutions is not effective.
Therefore, he believes it would be better for funds to be given directly to the association or the patients.
“Whether it’s a bank or a mining company, we need another fund specifically for renal patients. The challenges of receiving financial aid directly through institutions make it harder for patients” he said.
He said many renal patients, especially the youth, are suffering from kidney issues.
“Most of the people suffering from kidney problems are young. It takes four hours per dialysis session, and it’s a huge challenge” he cried.
Mr. Ahenkorah shared his personal struggles, explaining that he often has to raise money to help others pay for their dialysis.
“Sometimes, I have to get money and pay for other people’s dialysis because they can’t afford it,” he noted.
He also mentioned that certain foods are not beneficial for people with kidney conditions and spoke about the harsh realities of living with kidney disease.
“Life with this condition is not good at all. Some people even die on the dialysis machine,” he said.
Having spent nine years at the renal unit and now entering his 10th year on dialysis, Mr. Ahenkorah reflected on the financial toll it has taken on him.
“I’ve spent all my money on dialysis. Being in the banking industry for many years, I’ve now used up everything I had. I have nothing left, and I’m forced to beg people for money.”
Discussing the costs, he explained, “Each dialysis session costs 491 cedis, and this is a serious burden for most of us.”
Mr. Ahenkorah stressed the need for more education on kidney disease, pointing out that its leading causes are hypertension and diabetes.
“The problem is there’s no education on this. People need to get checked every three months. If you detect it early, it makes a big difference.”
In his appeal, he urged the government to step in.
“Our request is simple – we need help. This is a matter of life and death,” he stated.
He called for the establishment of a government committee to seek support from institutions.
He recounted a tragic case where a 21-year-old died because they couldn’t afford dialysis.
“There are so many people suffering just because they can’t afford to pay for their treatment,” he added, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
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