The Edward Osei-Boakye Trust Fund has once again demonstrated its commitment to healthcare excellence with a significant donation to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. This initiative reinforces the Trust’s mission to enhance medical facilities and improve patient care.
As part of this effort, the Trust provided the hospital’s Dental and Haematology Departments with essential medical equipment, addressing urgent needs in both units. The donation included a Biosafety Cabinet worth GH¢198,000 for the Haematology Department and a state-of-the-art dental chair valued at GH¢348,000 for the Dental Department. These contributions will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and enhancing the quality of care delivered to patients.
Speaking at the donation ceremony, Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana, and chair of the Trust Fund, emphasized the importance of these contributions.
“The dental unit at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital faces a severe shortage of essential equipment, particularly dental chairs. Recognizing this urgent need, we decided to step in and offer our support. Additionally, the haematology unit required critical equipment to protect nurses and doctors while treating cancer patients. Without it, they are exposed to significant health risks, making this an urgent necessity,” he stated.
In appreciation of the Trust’s generosity, Dr. Mathew Boamah, head of the Dental Department, and Dr. Ama Benneh Akwasikuma, head of the Haematology Unit, expressed their heartfelt gratitude.
“We are deeply grateful to the Edward Osei-Boakye Trust for this kind gesture. May the Lord continue to bless and increase you,” Dr. Akwasikuma said.
The event was graced by several distinguished trustees, including:
Most Rev. Prof. Daniel Yinkah Sarfo – Retired Archbishop Emeritus of the Anglican Church, Kumasi Diocese
The Rt. Revd. Oscar Christian Amoah – Anglican Bishop of Kumasi Diocese
Most Rev. Joseph Osei Bonsu – Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Church in Konongo-Mampong
Lawyer Frank Beecham
Gerard Osei Boakye
The Trust’s secretary and legal team were also in attendance, witnessing this remarkable act of philanthropy.
The Edward Osei-Boakye Trust Fund’s unwavering dedication to supporting healthcare facilities is not only improving medical services but also inspiring hope. With these new resources, the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital is now better equipped to provide critical and lifesaving care, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s healthcare system.
The Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund has made a substantial contribution to the Battor Catholic Hospital, reinforcing its commitment to improving healthcare access. As part of the donation, the Trust has provided the hospital with an ambulance to address urgent transportation needs, along with 10 much-needed hospital beds.
The donation, designed to improve patient care and transportation, was shared by Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, Board Chair of the Trust and Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana. Speaking to JoyNews, he expressed the Trust’s dedication to fulfilling critical healthcare needs.
“The ambulance was a request from the hospital, and we are pleased to fulfill it,” Most Rev. Dr. Boafo remarked. “Although our resources are limited, we focus on addressing the most pressing needs, and we are always eager to expand our reach.”
Meeting Critical Needs in Healthcare
Rev. Father Dr. Peter Rocky Hesse, Director of Health for the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, expressed sincere appreciation on behalf of the hospital. He highlighted the importance of the new ambulance, explaining the hospital’s previous struggles with inadequate patient transport options.
“We faced a major challenge with patient referrals, as the older vehicles we used were often unreliable, worsening the situation for our patients,” he shared. “This new ambulance will make a significant difference in improving patient care and transport efficiency.”
A Distinguished Donation Ceremony
The donation ceremony was an esteemed event, attended by several distinguished trustees of the Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund, including Most Rev. Prof. Daniel Yinkah Sarfo, Retired Archbishop Emeritus of the Anglican Church, Kumasi Diocese; Rt. Revd. Oscar Christian Amoah, Anglican Bishop of Kumasi Diocese; and Most Rev. Joseph Osei Bonsu, Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Church in Konongo-Mampong. Also present were Lawyer Frank Beecham and Gerard Osei Boakye, along with the Trust’s secretary and legal team.
A Lasting Impact on Healthcare
With the addition of the new ambulance and hospital beds, the Battor Catholic Hospital is now better equipped to handle emergencies and offer crucial care, improving the overall quality of healthcare delivery in the region. The Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund continues to play a vital role in strengthening healthcare facilities, ensuring better patient outcomes and enhanced healthcare access for those in need.
The Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund has made a generous contribution to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), donating crucial equipment to enhance healthcare delivery. The Dental Unit received a state-of-the-art dental chair valued at GH¢345,006, while the Haematology Department was provided with a Laminar Flow Cabinet, worth GH¢198,000, to improve their specialized care.
The Laminar Flow Cabinet, a critical tool in ensuring contamination-free environments for biological and medical treatments, will significantly advance the hospital’s capacity to treat patients, particularly those in need of high-precision care.
This donation aligns with the Trust’s ongoing mission to improve healthcare facilities and support the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Key Contributions to Healthcare Excellence
The donation ceremony, attended by senior hospital officials, including Acting CEO Dr. Frank Owusu Sekyere, Acting Director of Medical Services Dr. Harry Akoto, and others, highlighted the importance of these contributions. Dr. Matthew Boamah, Head of the Dental Unit, expressed deep appreciation, noting that the new dental chair’s advanced features—such as integrated lighting and ergonomic adjustments—would enhance patient comfort and improve the quality of dental care at KBTH.
Similarly, Dr. Amma Benneh Akwasi Kuma, Head of the Haematology Department, emphasized how the Laminar Flow Cabinet would improve infection control and provide a sterile environment for treating patients, further advancing the hospital’s mission of delivering high-quality healthcare.
Strengthening Healthcare Systems & Empowering Communities
Gerrard H. O. Boakye and Bishop Paul Boafo, representing the Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund, reaffirmed the Trust’s commitment to improving healthcare systems and supporting marginalized communities. Bishop Boafo shared, “Our mission is to assist those in need and improve lives. We are proud to contribute to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital’s efforts to provide excellent healthcare services.”
Both the Dental and Haematology departments expressed their sincere gratitude for the Trust’s support, which is expected to enhance patient outcomes and foster a more efficient and effective healthcare environment at KBTH.
Born in May 1933 to royal lineage in Juaben and Bamang, Edward Osei Boakye overcame early challenges, including the loss of his father, to become one of Ghana’s most influential entrepreneurs. After studying at Baldwin-Wallace College in Ohio, he returned to Ghana in 1959 and, at just 26 years old, founded the United Mattress and Foam Company Ltd.
At a time when mattresses were luxury imports, Boakye revolutionized the industry by assembling the Vono brand of mattresses for schools and hospitals. Later, he acquired the State Furniture and Joinery Centre, which allowed him to manufacture cost-effective, locally branded mattresses under the famous “Goodnight, Sleep Well” slogan.
Business Expansion and Innovation
Boakye’s ambition extended beyond Ghana. Through strategic partnerships with Vitafoam of Nigeria and the West Africa Foam Company, he expanded his operations across West Africa, including The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. His entrepreneurial reach also extended to Europe and the United States, where he diversified into retail, textiles, and real estate development.
In the 1970s, he demonstrated his commitment to social impact by constructing Ghana’s first fully-serviced private hospital, which later became the state-owned Police Hospital. He also spearheaded commercial property developments and had visionary plans for a drive-in shopping mall at the Holy Gardens – Kwame Nkrumah Circle.
Challenges and Resilience
Boakye’s remarkable journey faced major setbacks when Ghana underwent political turmoil. During the PNDC regime, he was accused of various infractions, including tax-related offenses, forcing him into exile in the UK. Despite these challenges, he rebuilt his business empire abroad, securing a grant from the British government to establish a mattress factory in Ireland and engaging in UK politics.
Determined to clear his name, Boakye returned to Ghana in the early 1990s and testified at the National Reconciliation Commission in the 2000s. His perseverance led him to reopen another mattress factory in Kumasi in 2003, though a devastating fire halted full-scale production. Nevertheless, his unwavering determination saw him continue operations in a limited capacity while expanding his real estate investments.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Generosity
Boakye was renowned for his relentless work ethic, astute business acumen, and philanthropic heart. Rising before dawn, he embodied discipline and commitment, channeling his success into charitable causes. Through the Edward Osei Boakye Trust Fund, he ensured that his wealth would continue serving society long after his passing.
Today, Ghana’s thriving mattress industry stands as a testament to his vision. From pioneering affordable, locally made mattresses to shaping industries across West Africa, Edward Osei Boakye’s legacy lives on. His life story is a powerful reminder that resilience, innovation, and a deep love for one’s country can create an enduring impact.
Through the E.O. Boakye Trust Fund, his legacy continues—supporting healthcare, education, and social initiatives that uplift communities and transform lives.
The Edward Osei Boakye Trust has upgraded the Legoe Physio and Wellness Centre to serve the Mamprobi community and surrounding areas better. This initiative aligns with the Trust’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for underserved populations.
The refurbished facility is now equipped with advanced physiotherapy tools, including ultrasound therapy machines, electrotherapy devices, therapy balls, and dumbbells. These resources will enable the centre to provide high-quality physiotherapy services at affordable rates, particularly for those who would otherwise struggle to access such care.
Investment in Community Well-being
This transformation was made possible through a GH¢200,000 investment by the Edward Osei Boakye Trust. The funding reflects the Trust’s mission to support individuals and communities facing social and physical challenges across Ghana.
During the official handover ceremony, Gerard Osei Boakye, Executive Secretary of the Edward Osei Boakye Trust, underscored the significance of prioritizing elderly care. He stated, “A nation or community that neglects its elderly is failing its people.”
He further emphasized that the Trust, established according to the wishes of the late Edward Osei Boakye, is dedicated to channeling resources from his estate into healthcare, education, and various social initiatives. Over the years, the Trust has supported multiple healthcare facilities, including contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past year alone, substantial assistance was extended to government health centers to alleviate the strain on public healthcare services.
A Brighter Future for Physiotherapy Services
Expressing gratitude for the Trust’s intervention, Prof. Jonathan Quartey, CEO of the Legoe Physio and Wellness Centre, highlighted the crucial role physiotherapy plays in enhancing the quality of life for individuals, especially the elderly. He emphasized the need for greater accessibility to physiotherapy services nationwide, as financial and geographic barriers often prevent people from receiving necessary treatments.
With this refurbishment, the centre is now better positioned to provide essential mobility and pain management treatments to the community, ensuring improved healthcare support for the ageing population in Mamprobi and beyond.
The Edward Osei Boakye Trust remains dedicated to empowering communities through strategic investments in healthcare, education, and social development, continuing the remarkable legacy of its founder.
