Medical Programs - Mercy Ships Africa

Our Medical Programs

Over 50% of the population lives within 100 miles of the coast. Many nations lack clean water, reliable electricity, medical facilities and personnel. Our ships deliver a state-of-the-art hospital to port cities, providing a controlled, safe and clean environment for patients—and volunteers.

Mercy Ships began sailing on our mission to provide hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor in 1978. Each year, we’ve been able to reach more people to provide life-changing surgeries.

To date, we’ve been able to perform over 100,000 surgical procedures and provide training for thousands of local African healthcare professionals. Every port brings new challenges, new successes—and new lives transformed forever.

Maxillofacial Surgery

craniofacial tumors, cleft lip, cleft palate, ear-nose-throat diseases

Orthopaedic Surgery

Club feet, bowed legs, windswept legs and knocked knees.

Plastic Surgery

Severe wound scars, benign tumors, chronic ulcers, burn contractures

Women’s Health

childbirth complications, vesicovaginal fistulas, rectovaginal fistulas, prolapse

General Surgery

hernias, goiters, other issues correctible by surgery

Eye Surgery

cataracts, allergy, infection, injury, pterygium, and strabismus

Palliative Care

terminal illnesses, patient care, spiritual and practical support

Dental Program

gum disease, cavities, tooth decay, tooth extraction, dental hygiene