Global Mercy returns to Sierra Leone for third mission to deliver free surgeries and medical training

The Global Mercy hospital ship, the world’s largest civilian hospital vessel, has docked in Freetown for its third consecutive field service in Sierra Leone. Operated by the international NGO Mercy Ships, the vessel’s return marks another milestone in its partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone to strengthen healthcare systems and provide access to safe, free surgical care.

Following routine maintenance in Cádiz, Spain, the Global Mercy will remain in Sierra Leone for ten months. During this time, it will deliver specialized surgeries and conduct healthcare training programs in collaboration with national and local authorities.

Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby welcomed the ship, emphasizing its dual role: providing critical surgical services and training healthcare workers. “When you have those, you’re not only providing a critical service today, but you’re also leaving a legacy behind,” he said.

Thousands receive free surgical care

Since 2023, the Global Mercy has performed more than 3,630 free surgeries for 3,240 individuals in Sierra Leone. These include life-changing procedures in maxillofacial, pediatric, orthopedic, plastic reconstructive, general, and ophthalmic surgery.

Mercy Ships also runs Education, Training, and Advocacy (ETA) programs to strengthen surgical systems. To date, the organization has delivered more than 63,000 hours of training to over 290 Sierra Leonean healthcare professionals. These initiatives include service development at Connaught Hospital and accredited training through the University of Sierra Leone.

Building sustainable healthcare capacity

Mercy Ships Country Director Dr. Sandra Lako stressed that the return of the Global Mercy reflects a shared commitment to close the surgical capacity gap in Sierra Leone. “Together with our partners, we are investing in local healthcare professionals who will continue to transform lives and create sustainable change,” she said.

The ship’s international volunteers and Sierra Leonean national crew will now begin a new round of free surgical programs while continuing long-term collaborations with local hospitals to improve surgical and anesthetic systems nationwide.