|PIC1|Invited by Benin's Ministry of Health, the Africa Mercy's medical and development crew look forward to partnering with officials under the government of President Yayi Boni.
Mercy Ships Founder and President Don Stephens says, "In a region of many failed or failing states, Benin has a government that respects basic human rights and freedoms, including improved access to health care. President Boni has stated that he eagerly awaits the arrival of our hospital ship to his nation, and I am full of hope that we can double the impact of our last visit with our new hospital ship."
This is the fourth visit by a Mercy Ship to Benin in the past 12 years. Liberia was the Africa Mercy's last tour of duty. Around 40 African crew members are included in the international complement of 35 nations represented by the 400 crew onboard.
According to the ship's hospital manager, Bill Martin, advance screenings organized by the nation's Ministry of Health and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are scheduled in the northern provincial capitals of Parakou and Natitingou between February 10 to 15 with the goal of screening between 300-500 North Benin candidates for surgery onboard ship while it is docked in Cotonou as well.
Surgeries to be offered include maxillo-facial, cleft lip and palate, tumors, flesh-eating noma, release of burn contractures, cataracts, obstetric fistula, and orthopaedic issues. Additional patient screenings will be held in Cotonou on February 19. All surgeries are offered at no charge to patients, thanks in part to the many donors who support the ongoing work of the Mercy Ship.
During the hospital ship's ten-month assignment in port, hundreds of volunteers from around the world will carry out a wide range of other medical and community development services as well, at the invitation of the Ministry of Health.
Since 1978, volunteers serving with Mercy Ships have had an impact on the lives of millions of people in the world's poorest nations. Following the example of Jesus, Mercy Ships brings hope and healing to the poor, mobilizing people and resources worldwide. www.mercyships.org.au