Ghana’s healthcare system stands at the threshold of transformation as Mr. Eric Seddy Kutortse, Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, champions a call for legislation to allow the harvesting of organs from deceased individuals.
Addressing attendees at the company’s 22nd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service held at the Accra International Conference Centre, Mr. Kutortse outlined the urgent need for this law to save lives and address the country’s rising cases of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
A Revolutionary Proposal
Mr. Kutortse highlighted the grim reality faced by patients with ESKD in Ghana. Without access to affordable organ transplants, many are left without hope. He noted that kidneys remain viable for up to 18 hours post-mortem, providing a vital window for life-saving transplants if appropriate laws are enacted.
“This legislation will revolutionize healthcare delivery in Ghana,” he stated. “We must move beyond discussions and act now to save countless lives.”
First Sky Group’s Ongoing Commitment
Since 2016, First Sky Group has been a beacon of hope for ESKD patients. The company has invested over GHC 36 million in free dialysis and kidney transplant programs, enabling 16 patients to receive transplants to date. By the end of January 2025, the company plans to fund four additional transplants, further cementing its position as a leader in corporate social responsibility.
Medical Community Backing
The Acting CEO of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Frank Owusu Sekyere, endorsed Mr. Kutortse’s call for legislative reform. He pledged the hospital’s commitment to championing the cause and ensuring that the legislation benefits patients not only in Ghana but across Africa.
“This bold initiative could redefine renal healthcare in Africa, and we are ready to lead the way,” Dr. Sekyere stated.
Conclusion
With Mr. Kutortse’s advocacy gaining momentum, Ghana is poised to embark on a new chapter in healthcare. If realized, this legislation could bridge the gap in organ transplantation services, ensuring that life-saving care is no longer a privilege but a right accessible to all.
2. Saving Lives, One Kidney at a Time: First Sky Group Boss Demands Organ Harvesting Laws as Transplant Donations Soar
Introduction
Ghanaian philanthropist and business leader Mr. 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.
3. Bridging the Organ Gap: First Sky Group Advocates for Landmark Legislation as Kidney Transplant Donations Reach New Heights
Introduction
Mr. Eric Seddy Kutortse, Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, has made an urgent appeal for the government to enact laws allowing organ harvesting from deceased individuals. Speaking at the company’s 22nd Anniversary Thanksgiving Service, he described the legislation as a game-changer for kidney transplantation in Ghana, where rising cases of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) threaten public health.
A Vision for Change
Mr. Kutortse highlighted the critical role that deceased organ donation could play in addressing Ghana’s kidney disease crisis. With kidneys viable for up to 18 hours after death, legislative reform would unlock new possibilities for saving lives.
“We need this law to give ESKD patients a fighting chance,” he declared. “It’s time to turn hope into action.”
Trailblazing Philanthropy
Since 2016, First Sky Group has spearheaded kidney care in Ghana, investing over GHC 36 million in dialysis and transplant programs. With 16 successful transplants already completed, the company is funding four additional procedures by January 2025, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to healthcare.
“This is more than philanthropy; it’s a lifeline for families facing insurmountable medical challenges,” Mr. Kutortse noted.
Support and Momentum
The call for reform has garnered widespread support from medical professionals and government officials. Dr. Frank Owusu Sekyere, Acting CEO of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, expressed his support, describing the initiative as “revolutionary.” Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, representing President Mahama, assured the audience of the government’s commitment to exploring the proposed legislation.
“This initiative could redefine healthcare in Ghana and beyond,” Mr. Debrah affirmed.
Conclusion
As advocacy for organ harvesting legislation gains traction, Mr. Kutortse and First Sky Group are leading the charge toward a transformative healthcare future. The proposed reform promises to make organ transplantation a reality for countless Ghanaians, bridging the gap between need and access.
Until such a legislative milestone is achieved in the health sector, Ghana will be among countries in Africa such as Angola, Benin, Burundi, Congo, Eritrea, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Seychelles, Sierra Leone with no legislations in place to cover organ donation, storage and transplantation.
In Africa, countries where legal requirements covering organ donations and transplantations are in place include Burkina Faso, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sudan, United Republic of Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe.