Mercy Ships begins medical operations in Ghana

The Global Mercy, the world’s largest private hospital ship, has commenced operations in the port of Tema, Ghana. The international Christian aid organization Mercy Ships will be stationed there until June 2027 to provide surgical care and training programs for local medical professionals.

During this mission, the organization expects to perform between 1,900 and 2,600 surgeries and between 1,600 and 2,000 dental treatments. All procedures are free of charge for patients, as the mission is fully funded by donations. This marks the fifth deployment for Mercy Ships in Ghana, continuing a partnership that began in 1991.

The mission addresses critical gaps in the Ghanaian healthcare system. Despite national efforts to strengthen surgical care, many patients face barriers such as high costs, long travel distances, and a shortage of specialists. According to the Ghanaian health service, the country currently has only about 200 anesthesiologists and orthopedists, and nearly 500 practicing dentists.