AYV News, March 13, 2025
For many Sierra Leoneans, access to safe, affordable surgery has always been a challenge. But thanks to Mercy Ships, hundreds of lives are being transformed onboard one of its vessels – the Global Mercy, the world’s largest civilian hospital ship. Initially scheduled to complete its mission in mid-2025, the hospital ship has now extended its stay in Sierra Leone until June 2026, continuing its life-changing work of free surgeries and medical training.
Docked at Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown, the Global Mercy is not just a hospital, it is a symbol of hope. With six operating theaters and over 100 hospital beds, the ship provides essential surgical care for conditions like cleft lip, burns, tumors, and orthopedic issues, all at no cost to patients. The impact so far has been remarkable, with thousands of successful surgeries already completed.
Hospital Director Keren Fuhrmeister confirmed that during this extended mission, the ship is expected to treat 1,800 patients, many of whom require complex surgical interventions. “Every case we handle represents someone who has been suffering without access to care. Our dedication remains the same. We are here to serve and transform lives,” she stated.
A Floating Hospital, A Lasting Legacy:
At a recent media tour, Mercy Ships leaders shared their vision for Sierra Leone beyond 2026. Country Director Dr. Sandra Lako provided an overview of Mercy Ships’ work in Sierra Leone, highlighting their close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the complexity of the surgeries performed onboard. “These are not minor procedures; we deal with some of the most challenging surgical cases that would otherwise go untreated,” she explained.
Day crew members who are Sierra Leoneans working on the ship, also shared their perspectives on what it means to give back to their own country through this mission. Many described it as a unique opportunity to serve their communities and develop professional skills alongside international medical experts.
Beyond Surgery: Building Skills for the Future:
The work of Mercy Ships extends beyond surgery. ETA Director Suzanne Thomas, who leads the Education, Training, and Advocacy (ETA) program, emphasized that equipping local medical professionals is a key part of the mission. “Training is the cornerstone of sustainable healthcare development. Through our programs, we are strengthening skills, improving surgical techniques, and leaving behind a healthcare workforce that is better prepared to meet Sierra Leone’s needs,” she explained.
What Happens After 2026?
The extension of Global Mercy’s stay is good news for many, but what happens when the ship departs? Mercy Ships is working closely with the government to build capacity in local hospitals through skills training and infrastructure development. The focus is on sustainability, ensuring that patients continue to receive quality care long after the ship has sailed.
Added to its numerous contributions in the health sector, Mercy Ships has also sponsored 10 Sierra Leoneans to study dentistry in Guinea, addressing the country’s shortage of dental specialists. “We don’t just want to provide surgeries today. We want to ensure that when we leave, Sierra Leone’s healthcare system is stronger,” Suzanne Thomas added.
Founded in 1978, Mercy Ships has been delivering free surgical care and medical training in some of the world’s most underserved countries. The organization operates two hospital ships: the Africa Mercy, currently serving in Madagascar, and the Global Mercy, which is stationed in Sierra Leone presently.
With a dedicated team of over 2,500 volunteers from more than 30 countries, Mercy Ships has provided: 119,400+ life-changing surgeries; 547,600+ dental procedures; and, 55,800+ healthcare professionals trained.
Mercy Ships is not just about providing treatment, it’s about building stronger healthcare systems across Africa. Their vision is clear: to leave behind a legacy of trained professionals, upgraded facilities, and better access to surgical care in every country they serve.
As the Global Mercy continues its work in Sierra Leone, it carries with it the promise of transformation — one surgery, one doctor, and one patient at a time.
