MSC Foundationand Mercy Ships Announce New Hospital Ship to Enhance Healthcare in Africa

A groundbreaking collaboration among MSC Foundation, MSC Group, and Mercy Ships aims to construct a new hospital ship, boosting surgical care and training across Africa, as announced on Earth Day.

 

In a significant collaboration, the MSC Foundation, MSC Group, and Mercy Ships International have announced the construction of a new hospital ship, a move poised to transform healthcare accessibility across Africa. This announcement coincides with Earth Day, emphasizing the commitment of these organizations to sustainable healthcare solutions.

On April 8, leaders from these organizations, including MSC Group and MSC Foundation chairman Captain Gianluigi Aponte, MSC Group President Diego Aponte, and Mercy Ships founder Don Stephens, solidified their partnership with a substantial anchor donation from the MSC Foundation. This new vessel is designed to deliver free surgery and medical training to thousands annually, addressing critical healthcare gaps in the region.

Captain Aponte, reflecting on his personal connection to Africa, shared, “Having spent part of my childhood in the Horn of Africa, I've seen firsthand the healthcare challenges faced by local communities. This initiative with Mercy Ships will significantly impact these communities, providing much-needed healthcare services and training.”

Mercy Ships, since its inception in 1978, has delivered over 117,000 specialized surgical procedures and trained more than 54,300 local professionals. The new ship will mirror the specifications of the Global Mercy™, focusing on training facilities to help host nations enhance their healthcare capacities.

The upcoming vessel will support Mercy Ships' expansion, allowing for more extensive collaboration with host countries in training and advocacy efforts. The infrastructure will include living spaces for about 600 crew and guests, a two-deck hospital covering 7,000 square meters, six operating rooms, a fully equipped laboratory, and advanced training spaces including a simulation lab.

Gert van de Weerdhof, CEO of Mercy Ships, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This state-of-the-art hospital ship will not only meet immediate surgical needs but will also play a pivotal role in strengthening local healthcare systems.”

Diego Aponte highlighted the strategic synergy, noting, “With MSC Group’s significant presence in Africa, we feel a deep responsibility to give back to the communities we serve. This vessel is a milestone in our ongoing efforts to support sustainable development across the continent.”

Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director, emphasized the long-term vision of the collaboration, “Our engagement with Mercy Ships has already facilitated transformative health services and training for thousands. This new ship is a testament to our commitment to supporting Mercy Ships for decades to come.”

This initiative marks a critical step in leveraging maritime capabilities to serve global health needs, showcasing an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility and international healthcare support.