The Renal Patients Association of Ghana has welcomed plans to fast-track the proposed Organ Transplant Bill, describing it as a critical step toward addressing the rising burden of kidney-related diseases in the country.
The association believes the bill will establish a proper legal framework to regulate organ donation and transplantation in Ghana, making lifesaving procedures more accessible to patients who currently have limited treatment options.
According to the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, nearly 19 percent of Ghana’s population is battling kidney-related diseases, highlighting the urgency for improved treatment systems.
Speaking on Starr Today with Tutuwaa Danso, President of the Renal Patients Association of Ghana, Baffour Kojo Ahenkorah, said the legislation is long overdue and could significantly improve the lives of renal patients.
“I think it is long overdue. We have been in this situation for a very long time. Normally, people have to travel outside the country to undergo transplants, although recently there have been attempts to perform some of these procedures here in Ghana. However, it has still been quite challenging,” he said.
He noted that many patients believe the policy should have been introduced years ago to enable proper organ harvesting and storage systems.
“Many people believe that this policy should have been in place long ago so that organs could be harvested and stored in organ banks. Then, when a suitable match is found, the transplant can be done for the patient,” he explained.
Ahenkorah also recalled that similar efforts had been initiated in the past but failed to progress after a change in government.
“So truly, it is long overdue. I remember that during the previous administration something similar was initiated. Unfortunately, the process stalled when there was a change in government and a new administration took over,” he added.
Sharing his personal experience, he emphasized that dialysis is not a permanent solution for many patients living with kidney disease.
“I think it is good news and we hope the process will be fast-tracked because dialysis is not a permanent solution. I have personally been on dialysis for 12 years and it has not been easy,” he said.
He further noted that many patients lose their lives while waiting for transplants, stressing that organ donation could save lives if properly implemented.
“Many people lose their lives while waiting, and in many cases when someone dies, their organs are buried with them instead of being donated to save others,” he stated.
The association has therefore urged authorities to expedite the legislative process to ensure renal patients can benefit from organ transplant services within the country.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh / Benjamin Sackey
