President Mahama welcomes Global Mercy Hospital Ships back to Ghana at Tema Port

President John Dramani Mahama formally welcomed the Global Mercy Hospital Ships to Ghana at Tema Port on August 18, 2026, marking the start of a ten-month medical outreach. The floating hospital, the world’s largest civilian vessel of its kind, began offering free surgical and anaesthetic services to Ghanaians during its stay.

This visit represents Mercy Ship’s fifth deployment to Ghana since 1991, continuing a partnership that has already delivered over 2,600 life-changing surgeries, 16,700 dental procedures, and training for 139 Ghanaian health workers. The President toured the ship’s orthopedic wing, where he viewed images of children who had received corrective operations for conditions such as clubfoot and curved legs, and who now walk and play football again.

Mahama highlighted how these surgeries lift stigma and give hope to families who previously could not afford specialist care. He urged all partners to ensure the mission strengthens Ghana’s surgical systems for the long term, and he praised donors, volunteers, and Ghanaian health officials for their role.

During the tour, the President met Madam Dame Ann Gloag, Lifetime Director of Mercy Ships International, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, and Archbishop Nicholas Duncan Williams. He also acknowledged the support of the Action Chapel International and other friends of Mercy Ships.

The President announced plans to expand free primary healthcare, improve the National Health Insurance Scheme, and invest in hospitals and health workers through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. He called on relevant ministries to streamline patient referrals, medical supplies, and operational arrangements for the ship’s crew.

Mahama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Mercy Ships team throughout the ten-month deployment, stating that the specialist care they provide will complement Ghana’s broader health goals.

The Global Mercy Ships will remain in Tema Port for ten months, offering free surgeries and training programmes. The mission aims to reach patients across the country who face barriers to specialist treatment, and to build local capacity in surgery and anaesthesia.