MSC Foundation, MSC Group, and Mercy Ships International Collaborate to Build New Hospital Ship

The MSC Foundation, The MSC Group, and Mercy Ships International have come together to embark on an incredible new project – the construction of a brand-new hospital ship that will provide life-changing surgeries and training to thousands of people in Africa.

This groundbreaking agreement was finalized on April 8, 2024, by Capt. Gianluigi Aponte, Diego Aponte, and Mercy Ships Founder Don Stephens. The MSC Foundation has generously provided an anchor donation to kickstart this project, showcasing their commitment to improving access to critical healthcare in Africa.

Since its inception in 1978, Mercy Ships has performed over 117,000 specialized surgical procedures, transforming the lives of many in need. The organization is dedicated to not only providing surgeries but also enhancing local healthcare systems through education and training programs. With the addition of a new purpose-built hospital ship, Mercy Ships will be able to expand its reach and impact in sub-Saharan Africa.

The new ship will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including six operating rooms, a fully equipped laboratory, and designated training spaces. This will enable Mercy Ships to strengthen local surgical systems and provide much-needed care to those in need.

The need for surgical care in sub-Saharan Africa is evident, with Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh of Sierra Leone highlighting the country’s 91% unmet surgical needs. The new hospital ship will play a crucial role in addressing these deficits and providing hope and healing to those in need.

With the support of partners like MSC and the MSC Foundation, Mercy Ships will continue its mission of bringing healthcare to underserved communities in Africa. This new chapter marks a significant milestone in their journey towards a healthier and more prosperous future for all.