President Julius Maada Bio has extended a warm welcome to the Chief Executive Officer and Management of the 6th Global Mercy Ships on their arrival in Sierra Leone. The West African nation is preparing to host the 6th mission of the world's largest charitable vessel, which is scheduled to stay for the next ten months.
The medical team onboard aims to conduct more than 2,000 critical surgeries, contributing to the creation of approximately 300 jobs for citizens, both directly and indirectly.
President Bio expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the significance of this endeavor for human capital development in Sierra Leone. He conveyed his delight in receiving the medical staff and crew of MV Global Mercy, emphasizing the strong partnership between the government, international organizations, and individuals dedicated to humanitarian causes. This collaboration has been instrumental in bringing the Mercy Ship back to Sierra Leone's shores after a 12-year interval, reflecting the unwavering commitment to improving surgical care and providing hope to underserved regions.
President Bio also shared positive health indicators resulting from the previous Mercy Ship mission, including increased life expectancy, reduced infant mortality, and decreased maternal mortality. These improvements align with Sierra Leone's commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, focused on ensuring citizens' health and well-being.
The President emphasized the ongoing efforts to enhance Sierra Leone's healthcare system, citing a recent successful surgery performed by an international team at Connaught Hospital. He expressed a strong resolve to continue such collaborations to elevate the nation's quality of healthcare.
Gert van de Weerdhof, CEO of Global Mercy Ship, expressed gratitude for the invitation to Sierra Leone, considering it a glorious opportunity. He highlighted the vessel's transformative role and the miracles witnessed aboard. The CEO praised Sierra Leone's Ministry of Health for strategic planning and leadership, underscoring the minister's significant role in their partnership.
The CEO noted the significance of commencing their 6th field service in Sierra Leone, expressing excitement about a lasting partnership since 1992. He revealed ambitious plans for the upcoming months, with the training of over 200,000 healthcare professionals across the surgical ecosystem. He emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming challenges and expressed anticipation for the positive impact of this mission.
In conclusion, the CEO offered a prayer for the success of their collaborative work, extending blessings to Sierra Leone, its people, and leaders.