With profound sadness, we learned of the passing of a giant in the Sickle Cell Disease field, on Saturday 7th May 2022 in the USA. Prof Kwaku Ohene-Frempong, affectionally known as “KOF”, following a short, and dignified fight against an aggressive cancer.
KOF has been a global leader in the field of Sickle Cell Disease, long before many of us can remember, he has trained generations of physicians all over the World and published landmark research that still informs, today, the care of people living with Sickle Cell Disease Worldwide. He initiated the first newborn screening for Sickle Cell Disease in Africa, in his native Ghana. In the past two decades, his focus on improving the prevention and care of SCD in Africa grew tremendously, through his active participation in numerous research and clinical care projects, and philanthropic initiatives. At the time of his passing, he was the co-chair of the Steering Committee of the SickleInAfrica Consortium.
His guidance, knowledge, passion, dedication, commitment, and engagement for the cause of all people living with Sickle Cell Disease will be sorely missed.
May his generous soul rests in peace.