Regulate Assisted Reproductive Technologies- Ablakwa advocates

“Mr. Speaker, in many other jurisdictions, Assisted Reproductive Technologies has been boldly debated and legislated. Ghana cannot afford to continue to lag behind. The consequences are too dire”.

Member of Parliament for North Tongu constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is advocating for the passage of a legislation to regulate the activities of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in the country.

According to the legislator, patronage of arts is becoming a widespread in our country and this opens the subject up for discussion.

Assisted reproductive technologies are medical procedures used primarily to address infertility. It includes procedures such as in vitro fertilization. When used to address infertility, it may be referred to as fertility treatment.

In a statement on the floor of the house, the legislator pointed out that many childless couples have found refuge and solace in assisted reproductive technologies also known as fertility treatment.

This he said has brought joy to many families but was quick to add that, despite its existence and benefits, there has not been much awareness.

He further stressed on the need for the house to pass a comprehensive legislation on matters pertaining to ARTs.

These include Surrogacy, IVF and the proliferation of fertility clinics offering several modern interventions.

He stated that policy makers have paid less attention to this development thread.

He said regulation of arts is very important as it will go a long way to help the country ensure that citizens who patronize such are treated with much care and are safe.

“Mr. Speaker, it is time for Ghana to have its own debate, decide on where we belong and pass our own unique legislation based on our cultural values, philosophical underpinnings and ethos to regulate the phenomenon of surrogacy and other ARTs” Ablakwa hinted.

Speaker of parliament, RT. Hon. Michael Oquaye has directed the health committee of Parliament to have further investigations on the matter and present report to the house.

By: Theresa Adezewa Ayittey