Ministry Tour

Along with the hospital on board the Africa Mercy, Mercy Ships also has several off-ship programs. Every 2 weeks crew members can sign up for a tour of these sites and see more of what Mercy Ships does, which is a great opportunity for those of us stuck on the ship all day! We got to see the Agriculture Site and the Dental Clinic. The Agriculture site is in a town called Hevie, about 1.5 hour drive from the ship. They are starting up a program teaching 10 men about farming God's way, using organic techniques. These 10 men will then become the trainers, who will continue the work after Mercy Ships has gone. The Agriculture program is partnered with a local NGO called Bethesda, who will continue funding the program.

Below are photos of the construction site that will become a dorm for the people to stay in while they learn about organic farming. Most of the workers are from Hevie and are overseen by the Construction supervisor from the Africa Mercy.



They use natural fertilizer and a natural insecticide they make from a local tree. It was fascinating to see how much fast the crops (corn and beans) grow with these practices. These corn stalks were only planted 3 weeks ago!


This is from the off-ship Dental Clinic. Everyday, a team of about 12 people head out to the Dental Clinic and see local patients. This is one of 2 exam rooms at the clinic. The Dentist do extractions and occasionally dental surgery. The hygienists also do teeth cleaning and hygiene education.


On Saturday, my friend Judi and I went out to the Hospitality Center. This is where patient often stay before and after their surgery. I handed my camera over to a little guy named Christian and he had a blast taking photos!