The Global Mercy is handed over by the shipyard ahead of being fitted out in Antwerp.,,,
Global health charity, Mercy Ships, has taken delivery of the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, Global Mercy.
“This day is a dream come true – not only for us, but for those we serve,” said Don Stephens, Mercy Ships founder. “African heads of states and ministers of health have often expressed a desire for more of their healthcare professionals to be trained in-country. This ship will do exactly that.
“Many who suffer from disability and disfigurement will have access to surgical treatment and whole-person care. This will enable them to reach their God-given potential.
“We hope that this new vessel and the volunteer crew who serve on her will bring hope and healing for the next 40 to 50 years.”
Mercy Ships has been working on this new ship project for more than eight years. With contracts signed in 2013, the keel was laid in 2015. Then sea trials were successfully completed in April this year.
The Global Mercy is scheduled to sail to Antwerp in July. There it will be outfitted with IT and medical equipment along with soft furnishings before heading to Africa next year. With 12 decks, the 37,000 GRT Global Mercy is equipped with six operating theatres. It also has hospital beds for 200 patients, a full laboratory and simulation training areas.
Mercy Ships is now seeking to recruit volunteer professionals to lend their time and expertise. More than 640 medical, maritime and programmatic crew are needed with space for up to 950 on board when the ship is docked. Currently, Mercy Ships crew are drawn from more than 60 nations.
