The Member of Parliament for Salaga South, Hon. Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahim, has paid a personal tribute to the late Professor Felix Israel Konotey-Ahulu, a distinguished Ghanaian intellectual with global recognition.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Hon. Zuwera reflected on the life and achievements of Professor Konotey-Ahulu, who passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 94.
She described him as a trailblazer and one of the world’s leading experts on sickle cell disease.
Born in Odumase Krobo in 1930 to a Presbyterian Minister, Professor Konotey-Ahulu had a remarkable career as a physician, researcher, and scholar.
He taught research scientists at over 20 universities worldwide, including institutions in Turkey, Brazil, Greece, Singapore, Australia, India, and many others.
In addition to his medical and academic achievements, Professor Konotey-Ahulu was a talented pianist and composer of hymns.
Hon. Zuwera’s tribute highlighted the significant contributions and legacy of Professor Konotey-Ahulu, celebrating his life and impact on the global scientific community.
Hon. Zuwera further shared her personal experience with Professor Israel Felix Konotey-Ahulu, recalling their meeting in London where she was stationed as a minister counselor and head of information at the Ghana High Commission.
She described him as gentle in manner and engaging, with a depth of knowledge that commanded respect.
Contrary to her expectations of meeting a stern medical professional, Hon. Zuwera found Professor Konotey-Ahulu to be warm and approachable, with a passion for bringing healing and relief to his patients.
Her encounter with him left a lasting impression, and she came to appreciate the well-deserved respect he received from those who knew him.
In conclusion, Hon. Zuwera Ibrahim reflected on her interactions with Professor Israel Felix Konotey-Ahulu, recalling how he would often take time to discuss Ghana’s issues during consultations at his practice.
She credited him with instilling in her a sense of hope and optimism for the country’s future, despite its challenges.
Professor Konotey-Ahulu’s passion for finding solutions to Ghana’s problems, particularly in healthcare, left a lasting impression on Hon. Zuwera.
He proposed practical ways to improve the healthcare system, including aligning infrastructure with scientific research and making universal healthcare accessible and efficient.
His dedication to addressing pressing health issues, such as sickle cell disease and HIV/AIDS, demonstrated his commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.
