Akuapem-Mampong: Sustainable Health Education and Interventions (SHEILD), a not-for-profit organization, in collaboration with other partners, has established a GHS 5.8 million kidney dialysis center at the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital in Akuapem-Mampong, Eastern Region. The center aims to improve end-stage renal failure management for the region’s residents and surrounding areas, where over 300,000 individuals suffer from chronic kidney disease but have limited treatment options.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project was supported by several partners, including Enterprise Group PLC, Volta River Authority, National Petroleum Authority, Kalmoni Foundation, Revna Bioscience, and individual sponsors. It features four advanced dialysis units equipped with tubing, blood, dialysate, and anticoagulant pumps, dialyzers, monitors, and a water purification system. Additionally, a newly constructed out-house and waiting area were sponsored by Enterprise Group PLC.
Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, emphasized the importance of accessible health services without financial hardship during the center’s commissioning and the launch of the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital Dialysis Fund. The World Health Organization estimates that kidney disease affects 1 in 10 people globally, with 2.5 million dying annually due to inadequate treatment access. In Ghana, nearly 14 percent of the population suffers from chronic kidney diseases, yet only 1 in 10 patients can access lifesaving dialysis due to cost and distance barriers, compounded by a shortage of nephrologists and dialysis machines.
Mr. Bagbin urged hospital staff to promote people-centered care, which embodies human rights in healthcare practice. He also contributed GH? 50,000.00 to the Dialysis Fund to support vulnerable patients and pledged ongoing support. He commended the corporate and individual sponsors for their contributions.
Dr. Sylvia Anie, SHEILD Board Director, highlighted that chronic kidney disease claims over 4,000 lives annually in Ghana, with fewer than 400 dialysis machines across the country. She acknowledged the support of key stakeholders, including the private sector, in achieving these outcomes. Dr. Anie emphasized the vision of promoting equity and access to efficient healthcare.
Mr. Samuel Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, expressed satisfaction with the dialysis center’s crucial role in providing kidney care, marking a significant milestone for Akuapem North. He lauded the collaborative efforts of SHEILD, hospital officials, sponsors, and community leaders in realizing the facility. The MP also called for public support in constructing a footbridge to improve pedestrian safety near the hospital.
