14th February, 2013
Mercy Ships volunteers will undertake their first mission in the Republic of the Congo – also known as Congo-Brazzaville – following an agreement with the country’s government.
Don Stephens, president and founder of the US-headquartered Christian medical mission, says that while "Central Africa has always been a part of our long-term aspiration…this will be the first visit of a Mercy Ship to the Congo".
“Our more than 20 years of service in West Africa has propelled us to reach out further to include Congo-Brazzaville and the nation”s desire to increase health care delivery and training to its citizens," he adds.
Agreements have now been finalised for the hospital ship Africa Mercy to dock at the western city of Pointe Noire for 10 months starting in August.
As well as treating people during the visit, the ship’s volunteers will also provide education opportunities for practising medical professionals.
The Republic of Congo – ranked at number 137 on the Human Development Index – was formerly part of the French colony of Equatorial Guinea.
– DAVID ADAMS
