The Africa Mercy is the largest charity-run hospital ship in the world, delivering free, safe surgical care. This floating hospital is staffed by over 400 volunteers, who give their expertise for free to help treat dental and eye problems, cleft lips and palates, tumours, club feet, childbirth injuries, burns and a variety of other conditions.
During the Africa Mercy’s stay in the port of Dakar, Mercy Ships provided 1,407 life-changing surgeries onboard, treated over 5,000 at a land-based dental clinic as well as providing healthcare training to local medical professionals. All was provided at no cost to the recipients and will help to improve the healthcare provision in Senegal long after the ship leaves port.
Senegal is one of the most politically stable countries in West Africa and has a steadily improving economy. However, despite this, the country still ranks 164 on the UN’s Human Development Index and in sub-Saharan Africa over 93% of the population do not have access to safe, affordable surgery.
Among the challenges faced by the 14 million residents of Senegal are malaria, widespread poverty and a high child mortality rate.
Returning after 23 years, we are excited to support Senegal's growing healthcare system through partnership, training, and free surgeries for many people who live in remote locations.
Mercy Ships doesn’t just deliver medical services. We believe in driving sustainable change in every country we are invited to visit.
We train local healthcare professionals. By the end of our field service in Senegal, Mercy Ships plans to train more than 1,400 healthcare professionals in Senegal.
Mercy Ships mentor maxillofacial teams, surgeons, surgical nurses, anaesthesia providers and sterile processing staff. Mercy Ships also runs a nutritional agriculture training course.
