During the Africa Mercy’s 8-month stay in the port of Dakar, Mercy Ships was able to provide 1’407 life-changing surgeries onboard, to treat over 5’591 at a land-based dental clinic as well as providing healthcare training to 1’286 local medical professionals. All of this has been provided at no cost to the recipients and will help to improve the healthcare provision in Senegal long after the ship leaves port.

Senegal is one of the most politically stable countries in West Africa and has a steadily improving economy. However, despite this, the country still ranks 164 on the UN’s Human Development Index and in sub-Saharan Africa over 93% of the population do not have access to safe, affordable surgery.

Among the challenges faced by the 14 million residents of Senegal are malaria, widespread poverty and a high child mortality rate.