Ghanaian philanthropist and business leader, Eric Seddy Kutortse is pushing for legislation that could save thousands of lives.
Speaking at the 22nd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service of First Sky Group, he passionately called on the government to pass laws enabling the harvesting of organs from deceased individuals.
His plea comes as First Sky Group’s kidney care initiative continues to make an indelible impact, with four more transplants scheduled for January 2025.
The Need for Urgent Action
Citing the critical shortage of transplantable organs, Mr. Kutortse emphasized the life-saving potential of the proposed legislation. Medical research shows that kidneys can remain viable for up to 18 hours after death, yet many are wasted due to the lack of a legislative framework.
“Legislative action is the key to bridging the organ donation gap and providing hope to families battling ESKD,” he said.
Unparalleled Philanthropy in Renal Care
First Sky Group has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to kidney care. Since 2016, the company has spent over GHC 36 million on free dialysis and transplant programs at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, a lifeline for patients who cannot afford the exorbitant cost of kidney replacement therapy.
“Through our efforts, we are not just saving lives but also setting an example of how corporate philanthropy can address critical health challenges,” Mr. Kutortse added.
Support from Medical Experts and Government
Dr. Frank Owusu Sekyere, Acting CEO of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, assured the public of the hospital’s readiness to support organ harvesting and transplantation laws. Representing the government, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah pledged President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to initiating stakeholder consultations to pass the proposed legislation.
“This initiative aligns with our vision to improve healthcare delivery in Ghana,” Mr. Debrah stated.
Conclusion
As Ghana grapples with the rising burden of kidney disease, Mr. Kutortse’s visionary appeal has sparked hope for a brighter future. The proposed legislation could transform organ transplantation into a routine healthcare service, saving countless lives.