The Founder and Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, Eric Seddy Kutortse, has called on the government to introduce legislation to legalize organ harvesting and transplantation in Ghana.
This, he believes, will provide a lifeline for patients suffering from renal, hepatic, and cardiac conditions.
Speaking during the company’s 22nd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service, Mr. Kutortse announced that First Sky Group, in collaboration with the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, has prepared a statement to be presented before Parliament for consideration.
“There is no legislation in Ghana concerning organ harvesting,” he noted.
“It is critical to establish a legislative framework to support long-term organ harvesting and transplantation programs in the country.
This initiative will save lives by enabling the legal donation and transplantation of vital organs for patients in need.”
Legislative Draft in Progress
Mr. Kutortse further revealed that a draft statement by the Organ Transplant Committee, under Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s supervision, has been prepared for stakeholder evaluation.
The goal is to ensure a comprehensive legal framework that Parliament can enact to regulate organ harvesting programs.
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“This means vital organs could be harvested from willing donors to save the lives of those in critical need,” he added.
Government Commitment to Dialogue
Addressing the event on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah reiterated the government’s commitment to the initiative.
He disclosed that the President plans to engage stakeholders, including traditional authorities and civil society organizations, to explore the possibility of legislating organ harvesting.
“His Excellency has assured that once the new Minister of Health is appointed, consultations will begin to create the necessary legislation.
The rise in kidney-related issues in Ghana cannot be ignored, and immediate steps are needed to address this growing concern,” Mr. Debrah emphasized.
The Need for Action
The push for organ harvesting legislation highlights the increasing prevalence of kidney and other organ-related health issues in Ghana.
Advocates believe the initiative could revolutionize healthcare by providing life-saving solutions for patients with organ failure, while also creating an organized and ethical system for organ donation and transplantation.
The First Sky Group’s collaboration with Korle Bu Teaching Hospital signals a significant step toward making organ transplantation a reality in Ghana, pending the necessary legal and policy frameworks.
