Admiral Paolo Treu and Mario Cappello on board the Italian navy ship Cavour.

The HopeXchange Medical Centre in Kumasi, Ghana, will soon be offering clinical services in facial malformation surgery to children.

Addressing a press conference on board the Italian aircraft carrier Cavour, which was visiting Ghana as part of a humanitarian mission, the centre’s Maltese founder and president Mario Cappello said HopeXchange, known as the Maltese hospital, was established on fundamental principles for effective health care.

This was the first time since independence 57 years ago that an aircraft carrier entered a port in Ghana.

The medical centre was built thanks to contributions by Maltese people who continue to support it. The Ghana Mission Foundation celebrates its 15th anniversary this year.

In 1999, the project was presented to President Emeritus Ugo Mifsud Bonnici. Its main aim is to raise funds for the hospital. The 80-bed hospital, which will specialise in five areas, is constructed and ready to receive the needed equipment.

Other works completed include a borehole for safe, clean water, a solar water heating system and a bio-gas system that transforms sewage to gas. The equipment for the first operating room has been bought and is expected to arrive shortly.

The hospital enjoys the partnership of more than 20 international and local specialised organisations who work with HopeXchange on a voluntary basis. The foundation is raising funds for equipment needed for the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

Donations can be sent to The Ghana Mission Foundation, 495B, St Joseph High Road, Santa Venera SVR 1014.

Donations can be made by sending an SMS to 5061 9216 for €11.65 and 5061 8091 for €4.66.

The foundation’s bank account numbers are BOV 11206046019 and HSBC 033 143819 050. For more information, call the foundation’s office from Monday to Friday on 2124 2792 (mornings only).