The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy hospital ship, Auspicious Ark (Hull 868), has successfully concluded a seven-day humanitarian medical mission in Ghana after providing free healthcare services to thousands of beneficiaries and strengthening medical cooperation between Ghana and China.
The mission, undertaken under China’s Mission Harmony 2026, officially ended with a colourful farewell ceremony held at the Tema Port on October 30, 2026.
During its stay in Ghana, the medical team aboard the hospital ship delivered a wide range of healthcare services, including general medical consultations, dental care, eye treatment, dermatological services, cardiovascular examinations, orthopaedic care, physiotherapy, laboratory investigations and surgical procedures.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, a total of 5,909 Ghanaians and Chinese nationals living in Ghana received medical attention through services offered onboard the vessel and during outreach activities conducted in local communities.
The medical team also performed approximately 40 surgical procedures, helping to improve access to specialised healthcare services for many patients.
Beyond direct healthcare delivery, the mission provided an opportunity for professional collaboration between Ghanaian and Chinese medical practitioners. Discussions and exchanges focused on specialised healthcare services, naval medicine and emergency medical response, enabling both sides to share expertise and strengthen institutional ties.
The Director of Medical Logistics of the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General Michael Addy, joined other officials at the farewell ceremony to bid the crew of the hospital ship farewell and wish them a safe onward voyage.
Military authorities described the mission as another important milestone in the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Ghana and China.
The humanitarian initiative not only improved access to healthcare for thousands of beneficiaries but also promoted professional collaboration, cultural exchange and stronger bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Ghana Armed Forces expressed appreciation to the Chinese PLA Navy, the mission commander and the entire medical team for their dedication, professionalism and valuable contribution to healthcare delivery in Ghana.
The completion of the mission further underscores the growing cooperation between Ghana and China in health, humanitarian assistance and capacity-building initiatives.