Health Ministry warns public against fraudulent Mercy Ships fundraising

The Ministry of Health has cautioned the public against a fraudulent fundraising campaign being aired on television stations, which falsely solicits money to support patients seeking surgical treatment through Mercy Ships.

In a statement issued on November 10, the Ministry said Mercy Ships International, an international Christian organisation providing free surgical care and education across Africa, currently has its hospital vessel, The Global Mercy, docked at the Tema Port.

The vessel is expected to provide free surgeries to more than 2,500 Ghanaians over a 10-month period ending in June 2027.

The Ministry clarified that patients scheduled for treatment were identified and pre-screened ahead of the vessel’s arrival through a coordinated process involving Mercy Ships and the Ministry, based on established medical and eligibility criteria.

It noted that Mercy Ships is currently operating at full capacity and is not accepting additional patients for the ongoing field service, emphasising that payments or registrations through third parties will not guarantee access to treatment.

The fraudulent broadcast, featuring an organisation identified as “HELP Save LIFE Foundation,” solicits financial contributions through an MTN Mobile Money account.

The Ministry stated that the campaign is not affiliated with, authorised by, or endorsed by Mercy Ships.

The public is reminded that all medical services provided by Mercy Ships are entirely free, and no patient is required to make payments, donations, or mobile money transfers to access treatment.

The public are therefore advised not to make payments or share personal or financial information with individuals claiming to facilitate access to the services.

Suspected fraudulent activities may be reported to the Cyber Security Authority on 292 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., the Ghana Police Service at the nearest police station, MTN Ghana on 100 for suspected fraudulent MoMo transactions, or Mercy Ships through its official communication channels.

The Ministry described the exploitation of vulnerable patients and their families through fraudulent schemes as unacceptable and urged the public to remain vigilant. It encouraged the public to rely solely on official Ministry of Health and Mercy Ships communication channels for accurate information on medical services and patient access.