Global Mercy, the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, has passed through the Suez Canal and will soon be in Antwerp for final outfitting.
Cooperation between the Senegalese and Egyptian governments enabled Global Mercy to transit the waterway free of charge.
The 37,000-gt ship, which left Tianjin Xingang, China in late July, is currently in Malta before proceeding to Belgium where the Port of Antwerp is providing a free berth and support.
Mercy Ships hopes to start active service with Global Mercy in Dakar, Senegal during the spring of 2022.
Free passage through the Suez Canal has saved Mercy Ships many thousands of dollars—in turn helping it to save the lives of many more poor people in Africa.
Bert van Dijk, international board member and president of Mercy Ships Belgium, said: “This is a wonderful example of a unique collaboration between two heads of state to support Mercy Ships and contribute to the improvement of healthcare in Africa.”
President Macky Sall of Senegal said: “We are very grateful for the indispensable support of so many to actually help my country and people.”
The global shipping and trading community has raised almost $4 million during the last five years for Mercy Ships through the annual Cargo Day fundraising, which will be held again on November 10.
