Mercy Teams
Africa Mercy
Short-Term Missions
In 2012 Togo and Guinea will be the home for the Africa Mercy, the largest non-governmental hospital ship in the world. Its volunteer crew is dedicated to bringing hope and healing to the forgotten poor. Mercy Teams will assist the crew of the Africa Mercy with necessary onboard projects. Accommodations will be onshore. So grab your hat and sunscreen, bring your desire to come and serve, and we will be waiting for you. Your life will be touched in more ways than you can imagine!
Togo
Togo is bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east, and Burkino Faso to the north. Togo formed part of the Slave Coast, from which captives were shipped abroad by European slavers during the 17th century. Despite the influences of Christianity (29%) and Islam (20%), over half of the people of Togo follow native animistic practices and beliefs (51%). This former French protectorate ranks 139th on the Human Development Index.
Guinea
Guinea encompasses approximately 246,000 square kilometers (94,981 sq mi). It forms a crescent, curving from its western border on the Atlantic Ocean toward the east and the south. Its northern border is shared with Guinea-Bissau, Senegal and Mali, and its southern border is shared with Sierra Leone, Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire. Islam is the majority religion. Approximately 85% of the population is Muslim, while 8% is Christian, and 7% holds traditional animistic beliefs. Guinea ranks 156th on the Human Development Index, much lower than Togo. In June 2011, the Guinean government announced the establishment of an air solidarity levy on all flights taking off from national soil, with funds going to UINTAID to support expanded access to treatment for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria.
Through a variety of programs, Mercy Ships strives to bring hope and healing to the people of these West African countries.
Team Availability Dates:
2012 Non-Medical Teams
Guinea - September 15 to 25
Keep watching this space for our 2013 opportunities!
Mercy Teams • phone: (903) 939-7111 • email: mercyteams@mercyships.org
