The Ministry of Health has hosted Dame Ann Gloag, Trustee of Mercy Ships, and her delegation during a courtesy call on the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
The visit forms part of ongoing preparations for the arrival of the Global Mercy hospital ship, which is scheduled to dock in Ghana in 2026 for an 11-month mission.
During the meeting, Dame Ann outlined Mercy Ships’ plans to provide thousands of free, life-changing surgical procedures, including cleft palate repairs, cataract surgeries, and tumor removals, as well as intensive training for Ghanaian health professionals.
She highlighted the spirit of volunteerism driving the Global Mercy, with hundreds of surgeons, nurses, and other professionals from across the world paying their own way to serve Ghana free of charge.
Dame Ann Gloag commended the Ministry for its leadership and pledged Mercy Ships’ long-term commitment to supporting Ghana’s health system.
This collaboration will directly strengthen Ghana’s surgical and medical capacity, ensuring a lasting impact beyond the ship’s visit.
Hon. Mintah Akandoh reaffirmed the Ministry’s full commitment to the partnership with Mercy Ships and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares Initiative).
He underscored that the initiative is not an act of charity, but a strategic partnership aligned with Ghana’s national health priorities, particularly in addressing noncommunicable diseases and expanding access to quality care for underserved communities.
“This partnership represents a major step forward in our collective effort to deliver life-saving care and build the capacity of our healthcare workforce. Together, we will ensure that thousands of Ghanaians regain their health, dignity, and productivity,” he added.
The Ministry of Health will continue to work closely with Mercy Ships and its partners to coordinate logistics, patient screening, and training programmes ahead of the ship’s arrival.
