President Thanks Crew

Cotonou, Benin, 27th February, 2009.  During Mercy Ship’s first week of surgeries in Benin, the President, Dr. Thomas Yayi Boni, and several cabinet ministers visited the Africa Mercy to express gratitude for increasing access to health care for the poor in his country. 

President Boni emphasised the contribution Mercy Ships is making to his government’s effort in providing better access to health care.  He spoke briefly about the ‘Millennium Challenge,’ a government initiative that seeks to provide improved access and infrastructure to the people of Benin.

“Our ambition is to bring health to everyone here. That is why we are so grateful you have come. Everything you are doing enters perfectly into what we would like for Benin,”

“We would like to create a new and modern Benin. That is why you are partners of Benin. My government and I are here to show you our thanks for your being here,” explained President Boni in his address to the crew onboard.

In his speech, the President quoted from Psalm 41: ‘Blessed is he that considers the poor.’ He mentioned his gratitude for the determination Mercy Ships showed in reaching out through additional screenings held in the North of Benin shortly after the ship docked.  Screenings last week near the port of Cotonou were attended by more than 5,000 people seeking help.

Mercy Ships Founder/President, Don Stephens, formally thanked President Boni for the co-operation and support the people of Benin have shown to Mercy Ships.  He spoke of the commitment the ship’s crew and offices in 15 nations have to help Benin during this economically stretching time in the world.

The President’s entourage was then given a guided tour of the Africa Mercy’s hospital, including one of the operating rooms and a visit to patients in one of the wards.

The volunteer crew is projected to impact more than 53,000 lives by providing free medical care, training, and capacity building programmes during its 10-month field service in Benin.