War Survivor Turns Life Saver: Mercy Ships Volunteer Champions Safe Surgery in Africa

Mercy Ships has paid tribute to one of its own heroes, Frank Seibure, a volunteer and healthcare leader whose work in sterile processing has helped make safe surgery possible for thousands of patients across Africa.

As the world marks Sterile Processing Week, Mercy Ships is celebrating Frank’s remarkable journey from war survivor to life saver. The week’s theme, “Serving with a Purpose,” highlights the vital role of sterile processing professionals like Frank, who ensure surgical instruments are safe, sterile, and ready to save lives.

Frank’s precision and dedication aboard Mercy Ships safeguard patients by maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. “If instruments aren’t properly sterilised, patients can end up with more complications than they came in with,” he explained.

His story is one of resilience and transformation. Having grown up amid the horrors of civil war, Frank channelled his determination to help others into humanitarian work. In 2011, he joined Mercy Ships as a day crew member in the sterile processing department — with no prior experience, but with a deep desire to serve. His commitment and passion soon saw him rise to become a Certified Healthcare Leader in Sterile Processing.

“My biggest driving force is to make an impact on society, help those in need, and serve humanity,” Frank shared. “The highlight of my time with Mercy Ships is that I’ve trained many young people to become sterile processing technicians.”

Often described as “the heart of the hospital,” sterile processing plays a critical role in patient safety. Any lapse in the process can have dire consequences, from contamination to infection outbreaks. Far from being a simple cleaning task, the discipline demands technical expertise, scientific understanding, and rigorous attention to detail.

A recent report by Surgical Directions, titled “Unseen but Essential: The Knowledge Demands and Staffing Crisis in Sterile Processing,” highlights the increasing global risk posed by chronic understaffing and underinvestment in sterile processing departments.

Beyond his technical contributions, Frank has become a mentor and trainer, equipping a new generation of healthcare professionals across Africa with the skills to uphold safety and excellence in surgical care.

Through Mercy Ships, Frank’s work continues to inspire hope and healing, proving that even in the aftermath of conflict, purpose and compassion can rebuild lives — one sterilised instrument at a time.