To get to isolated sites in West Africa, the charity needs to traverse rugged terrain, and the going has now become more manageable thanks to a consignment of new 4×4 Dueler tyres donated by Bridgestone, an ongoing supporter of Mercy Ships.

The gift was handed over to Mercy Ships by Bridgestone Netherlands Managing Director Peter Van Der Wal at the company’s Dutch head office.

“We have to be able to count on top quality equipment for our work in West Africa,” said Aad van Noppen, office and procurement manager for Mercy Ships, Netherlands. “The dirt tracks and terrain create some of the toughest conditions in the world for vehicles.”

Mercy Ships runs hospital ships with multinational staff to bring medical and surgical services to some of the world’s poorest regions. In recent years it has focused on the massive need for healthcare assistance in West Africa, which has led to the establishment of permanent land-based clinics. The charity also helps local communities develop sustainable water, sanitation and education programmes. More information about the charity can be seen at its mercyships.org Web site.

“We are confident that these tyres will help Mercy Ships in their great work,” added Des Collins, vice president of the European communications office for Bridgestone Europe. “Bridgestone operates a sister company in Liberia, Firestone Natural Rubber Company, which employs more than 6,000 people in the production of natural rubber. As a part of its commitment to employees and their families in Liberia, Firestone operates its own schools and hospitals there, so we are fully aware of the need for healthcare and education in this region.” (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)