In response to an invitation from the President of the Republic of the Congo, His Excellency Denis Sassou Nguesso, the Africa Mercy and her crew of more than 400 professional volunteers from more than 35 nations will provide direct medical services and training to improve the local capacity of the Congolese health system.
"His Excellency has made health care a priority. Mercy Ships hopes to contribute to this development in the area of health and well-being of your people, especially those most in need of the surgical care that this floating hospital will make possible," stated Mercy Ships President/Founder Don Stephens.
"Together, Congolese and Mercy Ships medical professionals will strengthen and build the capacity of the health care infrastructure in the Republic of the Congo. We are grateful for this opportunity," Stephens said.
Surgeries will include removal of life-threatening tumours, cleft lip and palate repairs, plastic reconstruction for severe burn-related injuries, hernia repairs, cataract removal, correction for orthopaedic deformities (club foot, bowed legs, "knocked knees," and other severe abnormalities), obstetric fistula repair, dental care, and palliative care for untreatable conditions.
Mercy Ships will also support continuing education opportunities for practicing professionals in the nation. Those include one-on-one mentoring for selected Congolese surgeons, nurses, anaesthetists and sterile processing technicians. Additionally, courses will be offered in local hospitals in the areas of basic surgical skills, ultrasound, bio-medical equipment repair, leadership and management. An agricultural program will address areas of food security and nutrition.
About Mercy Ships
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to deliver free, world-class health care services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world. Founded in 1978, Mercy Ships has worked in more than 70 countries providing services valued at more than $1 billion, with more than 2.35 million direct beneficiaries. Each year, more than 1,200 volunteers from over 40 nations serve with Mercy Ships. Professionals including surgeons, dentists, nurses, health care trainers, teachers, cooks, seamen, engineers, and agriculturalists donate their time and skills to the effort. Mercy Ships seeks to transform individuals and serve nations one at a time. Mercy Ships Australia, one of 16 international support offices, is based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. For more information, visit www.mercyships.org.au