Global Mercy hospital ship arrives in Ghana for 10-month mission

The Global Mercy, the world’s largest purpose-built civilian hospital ship, has arrived at the Port of Tema to begin a 10-month field service in Ghana. Operated by the charity Mercy Ships, the vessel will provide free specialized surgical care to local residents in partnership with the Government of Ghana.

While Ghana maintains one of the strongest healthcare systems in West Africa, the initiative aims to address barriers to affordable surgical care, such as the uneven distribution of specialists and capacity challenges in district hospitals. The mission marks Mercy Ships’ fifth field service in the country and will integrate free surgeries with medical education, mentoring, and workforce development.

Available procedures include cleft lip and palate repair, tumor removal, cataract surgery, reconstructive plastic surgery, obstetric fistula repair, pediatric orthopedic surgery, and general surgery. The 174-meter ship features facilities for up to 199 patients, including acute care, ICU, and self-care sections, alongside X-ray, CT scan, and rehabilitation centers.