The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the renowned international charity Mercy Ships, has announced the extension of the Global Mercy’s stay in Sierra Leone. The announcement was made following the medical team’s earlier end of service to the country.

The new development affirms the commitment to addressing the surgical needs of the Sierra Leonean people and advancing healthcare education in the region.

According to the Ministry, the Global Mercy will resume its operations in Sierra Leone in August after a short annual maintenance stint in Tenerife this June. The continuation of its mission is to offer free surgeries across various specialties, including maxillofacial, general, pediatrics, orthopedic, reconstructive plastic, and ophthalmic procedures.

Patient registration, facilitated by Mercy Ships in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, are to be conducted on designated dates and locations, to be announced in June. Registration remains free of charge, ensuring equitable access to surgical care for all.

Over the years, Mercy Ships has performed over 10,200 surgical procedures during its field services in Sierra Leone since 1992, underscoring its enduring commitment to the nation’s healthcare needs.

The news has brought great joy to the government and the people of Sierra Leone. In a country where there are only 25 surgeons for a population of 8 million people, there is a need to prioritize health issues.

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:

Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.

Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal.