Mahama affirms healthcare pledge as Mercy Ships launches 10-month Ghana mission

President John Dramani Mahama has restated his government’s plan to expand free primary healthcare, strengthen the National Health Insurance Scheme and boost hospital infrastructure across Ghana.

The remarks came after the president visited the Global Mercy, the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, which has docked at Tema Port for a 10-month medical outreach.

During the tour, Mahama met Ghanaian patients aboard, including children receiving orthopaedic procedures that many had waited years to access.

He described the encounter as deeply moving, especially after seeing individuals who had endured long delays for life‑changing care.

“It was profoundly touching to interact with Ghanaians undergoing treatments for conditions such as childhood orthopaedic problems, many of whom had waited years for this opportunity,” he said.

The president welcomed Mercy Ships’ fifth visit to Ghana since 1991, praising the organisation for its humanitarian contribution.

He called the vessel a “floating vessel of true mercy and humanism,” highlighting the importance of global solidarity in a world increasingly focused on self‑interest.

Mahama noted that the current mission will deliver direct patient care while training local health workers alongside international specialists.

The collaboration, he said, aims to build local capacity and improve specialist healthcare delivery in the country.

In a social‑media post, the president shared an unexpected observation: the ship’s stability surprised him, as he had anticipated a more turbulent experience.

“Having never been on a ship before, I expected to feel like a sailor, but the Global Mercy was as steady as any modern hospital on land,” he wrote on Facebook.

He expressed gratitude to Mercy Ships’ medical team, volunteers, donors and local partners for their ongoing support of Ghana’s health sector.

While acknowledging the value of humanitarian aid, Mahama stressed that his administration remains committed to expanding accessible, quality healthcare for all citizens.

“We are expanding free primary healthcare, strengthening the National Health Insurance Scheme, investing in hospitals and health workers, and using the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to ease the financial strain of serious non‑communicable diseases on families,” he added.

The president’s comments coincide with the ongoing provision of specialised treatment by the Global Mercy and continued training opportunities for Ghanaian health personnel.

He urged the public to support the mission’s objectives while reaffirming the government’s dedication to a stronger, more inclusive health system.