The Africa Mercy hospital ship has wrapped up its 10‑month 2025 field mission in Madagascar, delivering more than 1,370 surgeries and over 7,000 dental procedures.
The mission, the organisation’s fifth visit to Madagascar since 1996 and second consecutive deployment to Tamatave, provided care for more than 1,250 patients with conditions ranging from goitres and bowed legs to cataracts and cleft lips.
Among the most notable cases was a blind mother and daughter who regained their sight and saw each other’s faces for the first time following surgery.
In addition to surgical and dental interventions, Mercy Ships partnered with Madagascar’s Ministry of Health to strengthen medical capacity.
More than 20,000 hours of training were delivered to over 150 Malagasy professionals, covering disciplines such as surgery, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, dental care, laboratory work and nurse anaesthetics.
Health Minister Managa Monira praised the collaboration, saying it has advanced efforts to build a stronger national health system.
“A fruitful collaboration exists between the Ministry of Public Health and Mercy Ships, working towards a strengthened health system and improved access to healthcare,” Monira said.
Africa Mercy managing director Nathan Janson said more than 1400 volunteers from over 60 countries “came together this year to serve the people of Madagascar on board.”
“We look forward to returning in 2026 to strengthen partnerships, collaborate with the government and meet the many patients still waiting for care.”
The ship will now undergo maintenance before returning to Madagascar in May 2026 for a third consecutive mission, reaffirming Mercy Ships’ long‑term commitment to supporting the country’s healthcare goals.
JN/APA