International Partners Unite to Shape the Future of Surgery in Africa
Surgeons, anaesthesiologists, educators, policymakers, and healthcare leaders from across West Africa and beyond convened at the 66th Annual Conference of the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) to explore sustainable, nationally-led solutions for surgical care across the region.
Themed around capacity building and the development of the next generation of African surgeons, the conference offered a platform to advance regional collaboration, professional education, and innovative approaches to ensure safe and timely surgical care. Key topics included the integration of artificial intelligence in surgery, innovations in surgical training, and strategic use of technology to improve surgical outcomes.
President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana emphasised the critical importance of timely surgical access, stating, “In surgical care, timely access is critical and requires prompt and safe interventions. When access is delayed, preventable conditions rise, avoidable deaths occur, and families endure needless suffering. This underscores the importance of your work and advocacy.”
Among the international partners present was Mercy Ships, the faith-based NGO that has partnered with African governments and surgical institutions for over four decades. Erin Ugai, Regional Director of Programs West Africa, highlighted the organisation’s collaborative approach: “Our presence at WACS is about partnership. We work alongside ministries of health, training institutions, and local professionals to strengthen surgical systems in a way that is nationally led and sustainable.”
In preparation for its upcoming field service, expected to begin in August 2026, Mercy Ships’ Global Mercy™ hospital ship will return to Ghana to deliver free surgical care while building local medical capacity through training and infrastructure support.
Mercy Ships has consistently demonstrated its long-term commitment to African healthcare through field services that combine direct medical care, professional training, and sustainable capacity building.
Each year, more than 2,500 volunteers from over 60 countries serve on the organisation’s two hospital ships – the Africa Mercy® and Global Mercy™ – providing essential surgical, dental, and healthcare services to those with limited access.
The WACS conference and Mercy Ships’ participation highlights a shared commitment among regional and international partners to advance sustainable, high-quality surgical care across West Africa, ensuring that future generations of African surgeons are well-equipped to meet the continent’s healthcare needs.
