VESSEL charterers, brokers and agents along with owners, operators and others will participate in the annual Cargo Day which, since 2016 has raised almost S$5.4 million (Singapore Dollars) for the essential, life-changing work of Mercy Ships.

On Cargo Day (10 November) and in the weeks that follow, charterers give cargoes (Mercy Cargoes) to participating shipbrokers who find vessels to carry the shipments of oil, iron ore, coal, containers, and other cargoes.

These brokers, port agents and inspection companies then contribute 50% of their commission to Mercy Ships.

Pledges of money and address commissions are also welcome.

Mercy Ships Asia managing director Alan Burrell said, “Each year, the amazing men and women of the global shipping and trading community, come together to provide much needed funding.

“It’s this generosity which enables life-changing surgeries, direct medical services and support to be provided to those who need it most in developing nations.

Mercy Ships’ work with the Africa Mercy – a 16,572gt converted rail ferry – has been so successful that the charity is expanding to transform lives even further in 2022.

With the Africa Mercy continuing in service, the annual Cargo Day has never been more important for Mercy Ships as the charity is currently outfitting a new hospital ship, the purpose-built, 37,000gt Global Mercy in the port of Antwerp.

When Global Mercy is introduced into service next year, Mercy Ships will more than double its impact on the lives of thousands, providing free medical care for some of the world’s poorest people in Africa whilst also giving training support for African medical professionals.

Apart from the capital cost of the newbuilding, raised largely from private and corporate donors, millions of dollars are needed each year to provide direct medical services and operate the new ship. Costs include equipping six operating theatres, six hospital wards, radiology, screening and admissions, rehab and outpatient care as well as comprehensive training facilities.

Founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships has been active in more than 55 developing countries, providing services valued at over S$2.3 billion and directly benefitting more than 2.8 million people.

Already, the Africa Mercy draws volunteers from more than 60 nations—an average of more than 1200 volunteers each year including surgeons, nurses, dentists, healthcare trainers, cooks and teachers, as well as seafarers.