President John Dramani Mahama has expressed gratitude to Mercy Ships for its longstanding partnership with Ghana, recalling the organisation's previous missions that have delivered thousands of surgeries and dental procedures in the country. The current deployment of the Global Mercy marks Mercy Ships' fifth visit to Ghana since its missions began in the country in 1991.
According to President Mahama, the organisation's four previous visits resulted in more than 2,600 surgeries and 16,700 dental procedures, while supporting the development of 139 Ghanaian health professionals. He said the current mission provides another opportunity to reach Ghanaians who have waited for specialist medical care.
The Global Mercy is currently offering free specialised surgeries, including treatment for cataracts, cleft lips and palates, tumours and childhood orthopaedic conditions, as well as other treatable conditions. President Mahama said the humanitarian work of Mercy Ships remains particularly important at a time when countries and individuals are increasingly becoming focused on their own interests.
President Mahama described Mercy Ships as a symbol of humanitarianism and thanked the organisation for continuing to provide specialised care to people who might otherwise struggle to access such treatment. He also acknowledged the contribution of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and other friends and partners of Mercy Ships who have helped sustain the organisation's partnership with Ghana.
The President thanked the ship's donors, medical team, captain and crew, volunteers and Ghanaian partners for supporting the mission. He said the current deployment should not only be measured by the number of surgeries performed while the Global Mercy is in Ghana but also by the knowledge transferred to Ghanaian health professionals and the strengthening of the country's healthcare system.
President Mahama formally welcomed Mercy Ships back to Ghana and called for the current visit to make a lasting difference in the lives of patients and the country's health system. He expressed his hope that the visit would be a success and make a positive impact on the lives of Ghanaians.
The President's visit to the Global Mercy was part of his tour to inspect and appreciate the work of the organisation. He was accompanied by other officials and had the opportunity to interact with the medical team and patients on board.
Key points
- Mercy Ships has performed over 2,600 surgeries and 16,700 dental procedures in Ghana since 1991.
- The current mission aims to provide specialised care to Ghanaians who have limited access to such treatment.
- President Mahama has welcomed Mercy Ships' fifth Ghana mission, highlighting its importance in strengthening the country's healthcare system.
