The MSC Foundation and MSC Group in collaboration with Mercy Ships International announced a new initiative to construct a brand new hospital ship to expand healthcare services in sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative represents a significant commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and surgical education in sub-Saharan Africa, addressing critical needs and building sustainable local healthcare infrastructures.

The design of the ship includes extensive training spaces and a hospital covering two decks and 7,000 square meters, equipped with six operating rooms, a fully equipped laboratory, and advanced training facilities such as a simulation lab. These features are intended to bolster surgical education and provide comprehensive healthcare services during its 10-month field service in each port.

Daniela Picco, Executive Director of the MSC Foundation, expressed pride in the partnership: "Our collaboration with Mercy Ships has been profoundly transformative, benefiting 18,000 medical professionals and 30,300 patients through 33,200 surgeries since 2011. We are excited to continue this journey with the construction of the new hospital ship, which promises to extend our reach and impact across Africa."

Gianluigi Aponte, Chairman of the MSC Group and MSC Foundation, along with MSC Group President Diego Aponte, and Mercy Ships Founder Don Stephens, have spearheaded this initiative. The new hospital ship will be purpose-built to enhance the delivery of life-changing surgeries and increase surgical education in the region.

Aponte shared his personal connection to the region: "Having spent part of my childhood in the Horn of Africa, I've seen the challenges faced by local communities. This initiative is a direct response to the healthcare deficiencies observed, and it's fulfilling to contribute to an impactful solution alongside Mercy Ships."

Since its inception in 1978, Mercy Ships has performed over 117,000 specialized surgeries and has profoundly impacted local healthcare systems through training and advocacy. The new ship will mirror the specifications of the Global Mercy™, focusing on training facilities to further enhance local healthcare capacities.

The longstanding partnership between MSC and Mercy Ships, dating back to 2011, has been instrumental in providing logistical support. MSC has facilitated the transportation of essential supplies and contributed technical expertise in ship design, ensuring that the new vessel meets the operational needs of Mercy Ships.