Our hospital ships
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Our hospital ships

The world’s largest civilian hospital ships

In Africa, We Provide Free Medical Care

Every year, surgeries and dental treatments are performed free of charge for people in need.

We are committed to providing healthcare for all, reaching out to marginalized communities.

This medical care is made possible by the donations we receive and the commitment of 2,500 volunteers who have been joining us on humanitarian aid missions every year for over 45 years!

To carry out these missions, we use a fleet of civilian hospital ships: the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy.

Medical Care That Changes Lives

Mariama, Sira, Awa, Amadou… and so many others who can smile again thanks to the health care and surgeries performed by Mercy Ships volunteer crews.

Lucy, maxillofacial patient, the morning of her hospital admission.

Resilience in the Face of Pain: Lucy's Story

Her surgery to remove a tumor lasted 5 hours, requiring a team of 4 surgeons and scrub nurses – and it was a success!
Muriella

Muriella’s Journey of Hope

Meet Muriella years after surgery! She lived with a facial tumor for years, then Mercy Ships returned to Madagascar.

Story of Malang

Malang: Two Hours of Surgery, A Lifetime of Transformation

Malang was 2 years old when his legs first started curving outward. Discover how a 2 hour surgery on the Global Mercy fixed his bowed legs!
Anjara

Mercy Ships Welcomes Anjara, First Cleft Lip Patient in Madagascar

On May 28th 2024, Anjara became the first patient to receive free life-changing cleft lip surgery from Mercy Ships in Madagascar.
Papa

Papa’s Story

When a facial tumour began growing from, he feared that it would dash his prospects as a professional mechanic. He then met Mercy Ships.
Story of Astou

Reclaiming Dignity: Astou’s Story

Astou was 20 years old when her life took an unexpected turn. At the time, she was married and expecting her first child.

We’ve seen firsthand the challenges that arise when people don't have access to safe and timely healthcare. It weakens communities and leaves individuals vulnerable.

Volunteers

Mercy Ships has been offering free healthcare for over 45 years.

  • Two surgical ships, the Global Mercy and the Africa Mercy.
  • Over 2,500 qualified volunteers from all over the world serve annually.
  • Mentorship and training programs support local medical professionals in achieving long-term success.

Mercy Ships, a Heartfelt Story

Since 1978, Mercy Ships has been providing medical care, surgeries and
dental treatment to people in need in Africa.

More than 5 million people do not have access to basic health care,
even though this should be a right for every human being.

This situation is not inevitable. You can help by:

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Making a Donation

Every contribution counts. Every donation is a step in the right direction, making a difference in the life of someone in need of basic medical care. Be a part of that change by making a donation now.

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Becoming a Volunteer

Would you like to do more than just make a donation, and join us in helping those who need it most? Become a volunteer and join our crews who work on the ground every day.

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Talking About Us

Are you unable to help us with a donation or by becoming a volunteer but still feel moved by our mission? Support us by spreading awareness of our activities to others.

Your support allows medical care, among other things…

  • To give back a smile and a taste for life to the people treated
  • To help them find self-confidence after months or even years of suffering
  • To help them take their place in the community and be respected by those around them
  • To give children the opportunity to return to school or go to school for the first time
  • To have as normal a life as possible, quite simply

At the same time, we develop care systems for local health professionals and invest in the medical infrastructure where we work.

Thank You to Our Donors and Volunteers

Since 1978, thanks to them, we have been able to:

Perform

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surgeries on board our hospital ships

Carry Out

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dental procedures

Train

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professionals in their area
of expertise

Today, We Are Counting on You to Continue Our Mission

How would you like to help us?

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