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More than 300 Sierra Leoneans who worked aboard the Global Mercy are now unemployed following the vessel’s departure after a three-year humanitarian mission.
The 311 Day Crew members are seeking jobs as the ship leaves Sierra Leonean shores, prompting appeals to government institutions, private companies and development partners to absorb the trained workforce.
The appeal was made during a farewell event aboard the Global Mercy in Freetown.
Master of Ceremonies Edward Carew said the workers include men and women trained in administration, logistics, communications, hospitality, transportation, patient support, information management and cross-cultural teamwork.
“These are skilled Sierra Leoneans whose curriculum vitae are now available to employers across the country,” Mr. Carew said. “We are appealing to government ministries, agencies, private sector institutions and development partners to consider them for employment opportunities.”
Many crew members worked alongside international professionals from more than 60 countries, gaining practical training in global standards for customer service, safety and operational management.
Speaking at the event, President Julius Maada Bio praised Mercy Ships for its contribution to healthcare and human capital development in Sierra Leone. He urged employers to hire the former crew members.
“Our nation needs skilled and dedicated citizens,” President Bio said. “The young men and women who served on the Global Mercy have gained valuable experience and discipline that can contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s growth.”
Since arriving in Sierra Leone in 2023, Mercy Ships has provided thousands of surgical procedures and trained hundreds of healthcare professionals. The mission also created jobs and transferred critical workplace skills to Sierra Leoneans.
Observers say finding meaningful employment for the 311 trained workers would be a fitting legacy of Mercy Ships’ investment in the country.
