Today, Mercy Ships, Naves de Esperanza in Spain, announced a milestone in the construction of the world’s largest NGO hospital ship, which plans to sail to Africa in late 2021 under the name Global Mercy. Mercy Ships – Naves de Esperanza, a global faith-based organization powered by charitable donors and volunteers, has been providing world-class surgical care, free of charge, to those most in need for over 40 years.
“The Global Mercy will be a true modern marvel, a custom-built hospital ship equipped with the latest instruments, cutting-edge technology, and a highly qualified staff, creating a state-of-the-art hospital,” said Rosa Whitaker, president of Mercy Ships. “It also represents a special invitation to action for anyone with a calling to serve, and an opportunity for people to use their skills to positively impact global healthcare.”
According to the Lancet Commission's Global Surgery Report 2030, an estimated 16.9 million people die annually due to a lack of access to surgical care. More than 93 percent of the population of sub-Saharan Africa lacks access to safe and timely surgery. As COVID-19 threatens the stability of already fragile health systems worldwide, the need to provide basic, life-saving care is greater than ever, especially in resource-poor countries. The Global Mercy will offer a safe and clean environment to several African nations, providing aid and resources through some of the world's most highly trained medical professionals. Over the ship's expected 50-year lifespan, it is estimated that more than 150,000 lives will be transformed on board through surgery alone.
In addition to providing surgeries, the Global Mercy will be equipped with state-of-the-art training areas, including a simulation lab with virtual and augmented reality, mannequins and other training tools, and a simulated post-operative care area, enabling instructors to emulate local conditions and limitations in order to teach best practices in resource-scarce environments.
The 174-meter, 37,000-ton ship will have six operating rooms and will house more than 600 volunteers from around the world, encompassing many professions, including surgeons, maritime crew, cooks, teachers, electricians, reception staff, and more. The ship will also feature a 682-seat auditorium, a school, a gym, a swimming pool, a cafeteria, a shop, and a library, all of which have been designed to accommodate up to 950 crew members on board when docked in port.
The Global Mercy will join the current flagship, the Africa Mercy, doubling the impact of volunteers and services provided by the charity.
