On October 1, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama visited the Global Mercy, a hospital ship providing free specialised surgical care to patients in Ghana. He assured Mercy Ships of the government's commitment to resolving operational challenges affecting the mission. According to President Mahama, Dame Anne had briefed him on two challenges confronting the mission, and he pledged to ensure they were addressed promptly.
The Global Mercy began its multi-month field service in Ghana in August 2026. The mission provides free specialised surgeries, including procedures for cataracts, cleft lips and palates, tumours, and childhood orthopaedic conditions. It also offers training and mentorship to Ghanaian healthcare professionals. President Mahama commended Dame Anne for her determination in overcoming obstacles encountered in bringing the ship to Ghana.
President Mahama acknowledged the work of Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Finance Minister, and the wider government team involved in facilitating the vessel's arrival. He directed the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure that patient movement, medical supplies, and other operational arrangements connected to the mission are handled promptly and in accordance with Ghanaian law.
The President expressed his personal surprise at the stability and facilities aboard the hospital ship after touring the vessel. He noted that he had never sailed in a ship before and was impressed by the ship's stability, likening it to any hospital he had visited. President Mahama thanked the captain and crew of the Global Mercy, medical personnel, volunteers, donors, and Ghanaian partners for their contribution to the mission.
President Mahama specifically acknowledged Ghanaian volunteers who had offered their time and expertise to support patients. He said, "To the crew, I say thank you, the captain and crew, and especially to the Ghanaian volunteers. I thank you for offering your time and skill to people you may never meet again." The President formally welcomed Mercy Ships back to Ghana and pledged government support for the mission.
The President's visit to the Global Mercy was part of his efforts to ensure that the mission receives the necessary support to achieve its objectives. He noted that getting a vessel of the size and complexity of the Global Mercy into Ghana had involved significant preparations and the fulfilment of several conditions. President Mahama expressed his appreciation for the work of Mercy Ships in Ghana.
The mission's impact on Ghana's healthcare system and the lives of patients undergoing free specialised surgeries remains to be seen. With the government's assurance of support, the Global Mercy is expected to continue providing vital medical care to those in need. Key points include:
Key points
- President Mahama assured Mercy Ships of government's commitment to resolving operational challenges.
- The Global Mercy provides free specialised surgeries and training to Ghanaian healthcare professionals.
- The mission began its multi-month field service in Ghana in August 2026.
