The MSC Foundation and MSC Group, in collaboration with Mercy Ships International, have unveiled a joint initiative aimed at constructing a new hospital ship to enhance healthcare services in sub-Saharan Africa. This endeavor underscores a significant commitment to addressing healthcare accessibility challenges and advancing surgical education in the region, with the goal of fostering sustainable local healthcare systems.
The proposed vessel design encompasses extensive training facilities and a hospital spanning 2 decks and 7,000 square meters. It will feature 6 operating rooms, a fully equipped laboratory, and advanced training amenities like a simulation lab. These specifications aim to bolster surgical education and provide comprehensive healthcare services during the ship's 10-month field service in each port of call.
Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, highlighting its transformative impact on medical professionals and patients in the region since 2011. She emphasized the foundation's commitment to extending its reach and influence across Africa through the construction of the new hospital ship.
Gianluigi Aponte, Chairman of the MSC Group and MSC Foundation, along with MSC Group President Diego Aponte and Mercy Ships Founder Don Stephens, have taken the lead in spearheading this initiative. The new hospital ship will be custom-built to facilitate life-changing surgeries and enhance surgical education in the region.
Aponte, drawing from his personal experiences in the Horn of Africa during his childhood, emphasized the initiative's direct response to observed healthcare deficiencies in the region. He expressed fulfillment in contributing to a meaningful solution alongside Mercy Ships.
Mercy Ships, with a history dating back to 1978, has performed 117,000+ specialized surgeries and has made significant contributions to local healthcare systems through training and advocacy efforts. The new ship will align with the specifications of the Global Mercy, prioritizing training facilities to further strengthen local healthcare capabilities.
The enduring partnership between MSC and Mercy Ships, established in 2011, has played a pivotal role in providing logistical support. MSC has facilitated the transportation of crucial supplies and offered technical expertise in ship design to ensure that the new vessel meets Mercy Ships' operational requirements.