Health Ministry warns of fake Mercy Ships fundraising campaign on TV

The Ministry of Health has warned the public against a fundraising campaign aired on some Ghanaian television stations which, it says, falsely solicits money for people seeking surgical treatment through Mercy Ships.

In a press release dated 10 November 2026 and reported on Thursday 12 November by, and, the Ministry said the campaign, featuring an organisation identified as the "HELP Save LIFE Foundation", was asking for contributions through an MTN Mobile Money account. The Ministry said the campaign was not affiliated with, authorised by or endorsed by Mercy Ships.

Mercy Ships' hospital vessel, the Global Mercy, is docked at Tema Port and is expected to provide free surgery to more than 2,500 Ghanaians over ten months ending in June 2027. According to the Ministry, patients due for treatment were identified and pre-screened before the vessel arrived, through a process run by Mercy Ships and the Ministry, and the vessel is operating at full capacity and not accepting additional patients.

The Ministry said all Mercy Ships medical services are free and that payments or registrations through third parties will not guarantee treatment. It urged the public not to send money, share personal or financial details, or deal with anyone claiming to be able to arrange access.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the Cyber Security Authority by call or SMS on 292 or by email to report@csa.gov.gh, at the nearest police station, to MTN Ghana on 100 for suspicious Mobile Money transactions, or to Mercy Ships through its official channels.