Kenyans suffering from chronic illnesses who need organ transplants could soon have hope, thanks to a proposed bill sponsored by Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje. The 2024 Human Tissue and Organ Transplantation Bill aims to overhaul the current system by replacing the Kenya Tissue and Transplant Authority with the Kenya Tissue and Organ Transplantation Authority and establishing clear legal guidelines for tissue and organ donation.
The organ donation bill, if passed, would empower the families of deceased individuals to decide on donations for transplant or research. It would also make it easier for individuals to leave a will specifying which organs they wish to donate upon death.
Globally, the organ donation demand far exceeds supply, creating a crisis. Over 130,000 people are on organ transplant waiting lists, with many facing long waits and sadly passing before they receive help. The bill seeks to bridge this gap, ensuring more lives can be saved.
Organs and tissues that can be donated and transplanted after death include liver, kidney, pancreas, heart, lung, intestines, uterus, corneas, bone marrow, bone, skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, blood vessels, nerves, hands, and face, while organs and tissues can be donated while alive.
Organ transplants, such as kidney, liver, heart, and lung donations, are often life-saving and can dramatically improve the quality of life for recipients. Kidney transplants, for example, can free patients from needing dialysis, while corneal transplants can restore sight, and bone marrow donations can cure blood cancers like leukaemia. These donations can save lives and help recipients regain their independence and full participation in society.
Now the ball is in MPs’ court to make a profound difference by passing this bill, potentially saving countless lives and improving the health of many more.
