A Ghanaian family has named their newborn daughter after TV3 journalist Godwin Asediba, whose impactful reporting played a pivotal role in saving their two-year-old son’s life following a devastating dog attack.
In April 2024, young Kingsley suffered a horrific mauling by his employer’s dog, resulting in the loss of his testicles and severe injuries to his backside, which severely affected his ability to urinate and defecate.
The child’s father, a security guard, recounted the harrowing incident, explaining that due to the unbearable heat in their small living quarters, they occasionally allowed the baby to sleep outside. Tragically, one night, the child was attacked, and the father described the heart-wrenching scene of rescuing his son as parts of his body fell off.
Asediba’s report brought national attention to Kingsley’s plight, prompting an outpouring of support from compassionate Ghanaians. Donations flowed in, enabling Kingsley to undergo multiple surgeries, including a colostomy, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Dr. Glover Addy, a plastic surgeon at the hospital, detailed the extent of the injuries, noting the complete loss of both testes and significant damage to the faecal organ.
A year later, with Kingsley’s condition stabilized and his wounds healing, the family invited Asediba to a special naming ceremony for their new baby girl.
In a heartfelt video shared by the journalist, the family expressed their profound appreciation, stating that naming their daughter after him was a way to honor the life-saving impact of his reporting. Asediba, touched by the gesture, shared, “In honour of what Lifeline by Asediba did for them, they decided to name the baby after me. They even said she’s all yours.”
This story underscores the profound influence of journalism in effecting real-world change and the deep bonds that can form between reporters and the communities they serve.
As Kingsley continues his recovery, with doctors considering reversing his colostomy, the family’s tribute serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of compassion and community support.
@godwin.asediba Weeks after she was born, I finally held my baby girl—Godwina. A name given in honor of the journey we’ve walked together with Kingsley’s family. From tragedy to triumph, they chose to name their daughter after me, and I humbly accepted her as mine. This moment reminded me that impact leaves a legacy, and love knows no boundaries. Kingsley is healing. His smile is coming back. And now, a new life carries a name born out of hope. You can call me a father. Special thanks to @Witties ♬ original sound – godwin.asediba