 210 scholarships for local Ghanian doctors

Merck Foundation CEO meets Ghana First Lady &amp; 13 First Ladies of Africa and Asia at the 7th Edition of MFFLI Summit

Listen to 'I AM Not Anyone's Bride, Take Me to School' Song here:

Merck Foundation raises awareness about Ending Child Marriage and Supporting Girl Education in Africa through two Zambian & Ugandan Songs

Watch here the video of the Merck Foundation Africa First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting.

First Ladies: Pledge bold action on health, education through MFFLI

Watch the "Mark's Pressure" Animation film here:

Merck Foundation and First Ladies of Africa and Asia mark World Heart Day by providing 925 scholarships in 52 countries

Senator Rasha Kelej Received Kenya First Lady at the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to Discuss Their Joint Programs to Build Healthcare Capacity

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Senegal &amp; Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother

Senator Rasha Kelej Received Senegal First Lady at the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to Discuss the Impact of Their Joint Programs to Build Healthcare Capacity and Address Social and Health Issues

Forbes Article talks about Merck Foundation CEO creating Songs With African Musicians to Raise Awareness

Senator Rasha Kelej received Zimbabwe First Lady at the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss the strategy to reshape patient care in Zimbabwe and celebrate the success of their joint programs

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Maldives 

Merck Foundation CEO meets Maldives First Lady &amp; 13 First Ladies of Africa and Asia at the 7th Edition of MFFLI Summit

Senator Rasha Kelej Welcomed Angola First Lady at the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025

Also signed an MoU to underscore long-term partnership and to continue Merck Foundation programs in the country

Merck Foundation CEO meets Cabo Verde First Lady & 13 First Ladies of Africa and Asia at the 7th Edition of MFFLI Summit

Senator Rasha Kelej Received Gabon First Lady for Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Merck Foundation in Media</h2>

The First Episode of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” focuses on Diabetes Awareness&nbsp;

“Our Africa by Merck Foundation” is a unique TV program to address critical Social and Health issues in Africa through African Fashion and Art with Purpose community. The objective of the show is to create a culture shift by sensitizing our African communities about a wide range of social and health challenges and topics such as: Diabetes prevention and early detection, promoting a healthy lifestyle, Ending Child Marriage, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Stopping GBV, Ending FGM and Breaking Infertility Stigma, Sustainability, Raising awareness about coronavirus among other social and health issues affecting our continent.

This pan-African show is&nbsp;conceptualized, produced, directed, and hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation&nbsp;to feature Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent guests from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV Program has been broadcasted on,

Mashariki TV, Burundi; BTV, Botswana; GTV, Ghana; GhOne, Ghana; TV3, Ghana; QTV, The Gambia; KTN, Kenya; LNTV, Liberia; Mibawa TV, Malawi; Deffe Media, Mauritius; NBC, Namibia; AYV, Sierra Leone; NTV, Uganda; ZNBC, Zambia

Dr. Rasha Kelej Workshop - S1 EP1: Diabetes Awareness

The Third Episode of &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; focuses on Breaking Infertility Stigma

&ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; is a unique TV program to address critical Social and Health issues in Africa through African Fashion and Art with Purpose community. The objective of the show is to create a culture shift by sensitizing our African communities about a wide range of social and health challenges and topics such as: Diabetes prevention and early detection, promoting a healthy lifestyle, Ending Child Marriage, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Stopping GBV, Ending FGM and Breaking Infertility Stigma, Sustainability, Raising awareness about coronavirus among other social and health issues affecting our continent.

This pan-African show is&nbsp;conceptualized, produced, directed, and hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation&nbsp;to feature Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent guests from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV Program has been broadcasted on,

Mashariki TV, Burundi; BTV, Botswana; GTV, Ghana; GhOne, Ghana; TV3, Ghana; QTV, The Gambia; KTN, Kenya; LNTV, Liberia; Mibawa TV, Malawi; Deffe Media, Mauritius; NBC, Namibia; AYV, Sierra Leone; NTV, Uganda; ZNBC, Zambia

'Our Africa by Merck Foundation' TV Program | S1 EP3: Breaking Infertility Stigma

The Fourth Episode of &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; focuses on the importance of promoting a Healthy Lifestyle

'Our Africa by Merck Foundation' TV Program | S1 EP4: Promoting Healthy Lifestyle

The Fifth Episode of &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; focuses on Breaking Infertility Stigma

'Our Africa by Merck Foundation' TV Program | S1 EP5: Breaking Infertility Stigma

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Merck Foundation Presents Our Africa by Merck Foundation (TV Program)</h2>

Merck Foundation&rsquo;s sponsorship to pursue the Postgraduate diploma in Sexual Reproductive Medicine was a life changing opportunity for me. I had already done my Master&rsquo;s in Obstetrics and Gynaecology but there was still a great gap in fertility care in my country. I met couples in my practice that suffered from infertility problems and there was no specialized treatment for them. I was always passionate to help these couples but lacked the required skills and training to offer evidence-based treatment. Completing this course has really improved my ability to evaluate, investigate and treat my patients. Despite still awaiting a specialized fertility clinic in the public sector, I am doing the best with the aid of my training to offer specialized care to my patients.

I hope to start a fertility center in the public sector that will alleviate the sufferings of infertile couples in my community. Infertility may not kill but surely compromises the quality of life for these couples. Together, we can make a difference.

Merck Foundation’s sponsorship to pursue the Postgraduate diploma in Sexual Reproductive Medicine was a life changing opportunity for me.

Dr. Mulaya Mubambe, Zambia

My Name is Dr Moses Chirwa, Consultant Gynecologist and Fertility specialist at Chipata Central Hospital in Eastern Province of Zambia. I received a scholarship from Merck Foundation to be trained in Advanced Reproductive Techniques, from Milann Hospital, Bangalore, India.&nbsp;

This training has helped me a lot in treating couples presenting with infertility. I mainly serve a rural population which is about 600km from the capital City Lusaka. Zambia has only one Fertility Hospital located in Lusaka, and thus couples needed to cover this long distance to get access to the services. Thanks to Merck Foundation, I&nbsp;am able to provide some of these services, for example, investigations like test for ovarian reserve right in our hospital, follicular tracking measurement and treatment by timed intercourse. Thanks to the training I&nbsp;can investigate and treat the couples much better than before.

About 10% women visiting the gynecology outpatient department at our hospital are suffering from infertility. It is a huge social problem mainly due to the stigma against infertile women. Some end up as victims of gender-based violence and victims of infidelity as their husbands attempt to have children outside marriage. Thanks to Merck Foundation for the training, I am also fighting the stigma against infertile women by working with various local leaders and media campaigns.&nbsp;I am also teaching other doctors and nurses about the methods of screening and management of infertility.

This training has helped me a lot in treating couples presenting with infertility. 

Dr. Moses Chirwa, Zambia

I feel extremely privileged to have been given this opportunity by Merck Foundation to train in Assisted Reproductive Techniques. This has been a dream come true for me as I had always wanted to do this program. In my opinion the program has been a success and I really feel empowered to help women with fertility problems in several ways. I wish to open a specialized fertility clinic along with my colleagues and juniors, so that we can not only treat infertile patients but also build capacity by means of knowledge sharing. We can conduct transvaginal ultrasound scans (TUS) and even hold clinical meetings to discuss challenges in infertility management. 

I have also expressed interest to join the hospital radio program to try and address the issues of infertility and their available solutions.&nbsp;I&rsquo;d like to thank Merck Foundation for the sponsorship and may this benefit be extended to many others.

In my opinion the program has been a success and I really feel empowered to help women with fertility problems in several ways. 

Dr. Njekwa Samutumwa, Zambia

I am Dr Gabriel K. Mulimbi from Zambia, and I am one of the beneficiaries of the prestigious Merck Foundation scholarship that enabled me to pursue a master&rsquo;s degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine.

I work at the Kabwe Central Hospital in Central Province, which is about 140 Km from the capital, Lusaka. In 2020, I was given an opportunity by Merck Foundation to pursue a 1-year postgraduate diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, that I successfully completed with a distinction. Driven by the zeal to make an impact in my medical carrier, Merck Foundation gave me another opportunity to change the face of infertility in my country by supporting me to do an MSc. in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine. With such advanced trainings, it was time for me to offer specialty treatment that could help change the face of infertility specially by reducing the stigma towards such females. 

I thus started a specialised &lsquo;Fertility Clinic&rsquo; within the hospital to attend at least 5 patients every Tuesday. Earlier, these patient with fertility problems were seen in the overcrowded general gynaecology clinic and managed conservatively. I realized that infertility is a much bigger problem and allocated one more day per week to this special OPD. I must admit it is a challenge to begin a new project, but I am optimistic that my efforts today will bring a significant change in the future.

I&rsquo;m glad that patients are visiting the clinic in good numbers for consultation, although we are still struggling with male involvement. However, we are gradually creating awareness and are hopeful to see the male partners equally involved soon.

Thank you, Merck Foundation, for all the support provided. This is surely history in the making.

Thank you, Merck Foundation, for all the support provided. This is surely history in the making.

Dr. Gabriel Mulimbi, Zambia

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to study sexual and reproductive medicine. I had a great experience through out the course. The topics were well structured making it easy for us to learn. Our tutors did a good job in providing guidance and ensuring everyone got involved. I also learned a lot from my peers. The student support team was very helpful as they provided guidance and responded to all my queries on time. This program has taught me how to diagnose and manage various sexual and reproductive disorders, and this has led to improved quality of care of my patients. This is a program I would love to pursue up to Masters level and to recommend to my colleagues. With more people involved, I feel my community and my Country at large would benefit a lot.

This program has taught me how to diagnose and manage various sexual and reproductive disorders, and this has led to improved quality of care of my patients. 

Dr. Tembo Yolani, Zambia

I&rsquo;m Dr. Nonde N. Royd from Zambia. I have completed the PG Diploma in Sexual &amp; Reproductive Medicine and currently undergoing MSc in Sexual and Reproductive Health offered to me by Merck Foundation. I am very grateful for getting a chance to study this course as it has enabled me to acquire skills and knowledge to assist many people in my community with sexual and reproductive conditions.

I have learnt so much regarding approach and management of infertility, for example, knowledge and skills I could never have gained anywhere else if it wasn&rsquo;t for Merk Foundation. Some of the topics covered really opened my mind to conditions like psychosexual disorders, for example, which, I must say are common in women in my area.

I not only learnt conditions but research methodology as well. A very important area especially regarding evidence-based medicine. I plan to use the skills and knowledge gained to conduct my own local research to find solutions for local problems. Many times, we as Africans depend on western studies, which I must say are great, but still lack that local application as many times the conditions are very different. 

Merk Foundation gave me an opportunity to study on a world class platform. I first had difficulties navigating the platform but with the help of the ever-helpful student services, I managed to find my way through. I also had opportunity to meet foreign students whom we formed networks and interacted very well.

The tutors were very helpful and resilient from the onset. There were many times when I wanted to give up, but these would take personal interest in my affairs and counsel me to forge on as the opportunity given by Merk Foundation was not just for me but, much more, patient-centered! The patient-centered approach was very motivating.

Thank you very much, Merck Foundation, for giving me this great privilege to study PG Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.

I plan to use the skills and knowledge gained to conduct my own local research to find solutions for local problems. 

Dr. Nonde Royd, Zambia

My names are Dr. Phillip Mukwavi, an Obsterician/ Gynaecologist from Zambia who recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine. The post graduate training was made possible with the financial help from Merck Foundation in 2021 who settled all my tuition and other related financial obligations. Coming from a developing country with limited resources and facilities, this specialist training is not available locally, and thus, would not have been possible for me to undertake.

Sexual and Reproductive health complaints are becoming an increasing problem in most of our facilities, against a limited number of trained health personnel, majority of them who are stationed in the private sector. As a doctor practicing in a Public Health institution, the training has equipped me with valuable knowledge that will translate in better and affordable patient care for all.

I would like to extend my gratitude to Merck Foundation for the opportunity accorded to me to pursue my passion and at the same time be relevant to my community and country at large. The course is very enlightening, and the experience so valuable that I would not hesitate to recommend it to those with a similar passion seeking to further their studies.

Thank you, Merck Foundation..!

As a doctor practicing in a Public Health institution, the training has equipped me with valuable knowledge that will translate in better and affordable patient care for all.

Dr. Mukwavi Phillip, Zambia

I&rsquo;m Dr Kalaba Promise Nkandu, an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist from Zambia and I have successfully completed the PG Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine courtesy of the sponsorship offered to me under the &lsquo;Merck foundation more than a mother&rsquo; program in 2021. I have since proceeded on to do an MSc in the same course, under the same sponsorship, which is scheduled to be completed by January 2023.

The course has been very helpful in my practice and has some relevant practical applications that have led to improved quality of patient care. It is well structured and the content is very relevant. The model employed enables one to engage with various professionals with different backgrounds and skills, leading to a well refined and all-encompassing learning experience. The online nature of the course is beneficial for any working professional and though done virtually, the component of continuous reflection ensures that the lessons learnt are not merely theoretical but transferred into real world practice.

I was very impressed with the PG Diploma curriculum and faculty, such that I did not hesitate to follow up with the MSc, a decision which was made possible by continued support from Merck foundation. I have also been privileged to be a member of the Africa Reproductive Care Society, courtesy of Merck Foundation. I would recommend that more people undergo such training in order to improve the quality of patient care that is offered to affected patients within the African continent. 

Thank you, Merck Foundation.

The course has been very helpful in my practice and has some relevant practical applications that have led to improved quality of patient care.

Dr. Kalaba Promise Nkandu

It is with my deepest heartfelt gratitude that I am writing to testify how Merck Foundation has made my seemingly impossible journey look so possible. This milestone reached would not have been attained without Merck Foundation. Thank you so much for the opportunity rendered to me to acquire more knowledge and experience to better my clinical practice for the benefit of my community and country at large. My experience during the postgraduate diploma program was eye opening towards so many issues relating to the burden of infertility.

I would also like to extend my gratitude towards the University of South Wales management who had put up a great team of tutors and technical support that was extremely good and always had a quick response to any challenges and gave timely assistance.

I must mention that the topics that were discussed during all the modules for this course were not only very useful but enriching and the quality of tutors picked were of high caliber and experience and always got us involved at every point of discussion and ensured that no one was left behind. I had the opportunity to learn about different approaches to patient management with primary focus on patient centered care. Given an opportunity, I would love to take such courses in the future too and would recommend them to my friends and colleagues too. I think it is a great opportunity and it will be nice to have more people getting involved especially from low- and middle-income countries.

Thank you Merck Foundation for another opportunity given to me in 2021 for studying a Master of Science (MSc.) degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine. My success story in this field of medicine will never be mentioned without crediting Merck Foundation for its phenomenal support. I can assure you that this help will not go in vain but will bear and yield fruits that you will be proud of. Thank you so much, I shall forever be grateful.

Merck Foundation has made my seemingly impossible journey look so possible.

Dr. Makenzih Bright, Zambia

I&rsquo;m Dr. Gidion Chongo from Zambia, and I am thankful to Merck Foundation for giving me this opportunity to share my firsthand experience after doing the diabetes mastercourse. This course I must say, was packed with abundant updated information and easy to understand. It has enlightened me with a lot of advanced information that I wasn&#39;t aware of, including best approaches towards diabetes management. I can confidently claim that this was one of the best courses that I have ever attended. 

&nbsp;

Thanks for letting me be a part of it. It has surely made diabetes management a lot easier for me.

I can confidently claim that this was one of the best courses that I have ever attended.

Dr. Gidion Chongo, Zambia

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">&nbsp;Testimonials of Merck Foundation Alumni</h2>

Après le lancement réussi de ‘Merck More Than a Mother’ Fashion Awards, la Fondation Merck lance une autre initiative unique visant à briser la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité au Ghana et dans le reste de l’Afrique 

La Fondation Merck lance un Appel à Candidatures pour le « Merck More Than a Mother » Film Awards en partenariat avec La Première du Ghana.

Merck Foundation declared Kenya First Lady as the Ambassador of “More than a Mother”

Merck Foundation and Kenya First Lady mark a Landmark Moment for Supporting Girl Education with their "Educating Linda" Program at Kenya State House

We also formally launched the Merck Foundation programs in the country

Merck Foundation declared Gabon First Lady as Ambassador of “More than a Mother” to build healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma, and support girl education

Watch the video of MFFLI Committee Meeting held during the 12 Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025

Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI to discuss 2026 strategy and share programs’ impact to Train Healthcare Providers, Support Girl Education and Break Infertility Stigma

The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Merck Foundation CEO and First Ladies of Africa and Asia share their partnership journey in Transforming Patient Care Landscape, Supporting Girl Education and Breaking Infertility Stigma

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Our Articles</h2>

Follow Merck Foundation on :

Merck Foundation Educating Linda Program

Building Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Care Capacity

Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program

Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary

Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit

Who We Are

Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through Science and Technology.

Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions, building healthcare, scientific research &amp; media capacity, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girl&nbsp;education.

Merck Foundation Strives to

work closely with partners that are First Ladies of African and Asian Countries, Ministries of Health, Education, Information &amp; Communication, Gender, Academia, Research Institutions, Media and Art in building healthcare capacity and addressing health, social &amp; economic challenges in developing countries and under-served communities.

 
Merck Foundation has been recognized as the 2024 and 2022 NGO of the Year, the Most Influential NGO Shaping Africa&rsquo;s Future and also received the &lsquo;Best Health Sector Philanthropy&rsquo; Award 2023.

Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through Science and Technology.&nbsp;Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions, building healthcare, scientific research &amp; media capacity, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girls&#39; education.&nbsp;

A WORLD WHERE EVERYONE CAN LEAD A HEALTHY AND FULFILLING LIFE

Our Vision

Apply for Merck Foundation Scholarships

Live on Facebook- First online Merck Foundation Summit 2024

Live on Facebook - MF Health Media Training for The Gambia

Marquee Testing

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L’Union des Journalistes Indépendants du Togo, Togo

L’Association Camerounaise des Journalistes Anglophones, Cameroun

Réseau des Médias Africains pour la Promotion de la Santé et de l'Environnement à Madagascar "
(REMAPSEN - MADA)

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Partners</h2>

firozcategory

2025

2023

2026

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Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO Merck Foundation Speech during Guinea Health Media Training 2019

“Merck Foundation Health Media Training” in Burundi.

Zimbabwe First Lady H.E. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA speech at Merck Foundation Health Media Training

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Hear Our Stories</h2>

Test Award

Merck Foundation MEDIA RECOGNITION AWARDS “Diabetes & Hypertension”

merck-foundation-fashion-awards-diabetes--hypertension

Merck Foundation FASHION AWARDS “Diabetes & Hypertension”

merck-foundation-africa-media-recognition-awards-more-than-a-mother

Merck Foundation AFRICA MEDIA RECOGNITION AWARDS “More Than a Mother”

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Our Awards <a class="hyperlink" style="background-color:transparent;border-width:0px;box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(0, 103, 179);font-family:verdana;font-size:20px;margin:0px;outline:0px !important;padding:0px;transition:0.3s;" href="https://merck-foundation.com/Awards-Online-Application-Form" target="_blank">(Apply Now)</a></h2>

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<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">&nbsp;Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation &nbsp;Beyond Power; Leadership, Global Influence and Impact</h2>

The Sixth Episode of &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; focuses on raising awareness against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

&ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; is a unique TV program to address critical Social and Health issues in Africa through African Fashion and Art with Purpose community. The objective of the show is to create a culture shift by sensitizing our African communities about a wide range of social and health challenges and topics such as: Diabetes prevention and early detection, promoting a healthy lifestyle, Ending Child Marriage, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Stopping GBV, Ending FGM and Breaking Infertility Stigma, Sustainability, Raising awareness about coronavirus among other social and health issues affecting our continent.

This pan-African show is&nbsp;conceptualized, produced, directed, and hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation&nbsp;to feature Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent guests from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV Program has been broadcasted on,

Mashariki TV, Burundi; BTV, Botswana; GTV, Ghana; GhOne, Ghana; TV3, Ghana; QTV, The Gambia; KTN, Kenya; LNTV, Liberia; Mibawa TV, Malawi; Deffe Media, Mauritius; NBC, Namibia; AYV, Sierra Leone; NTV, Uganda; ZNBC, Zambia

'Our Africa by Merck Foundation' TV Program | S1 EP6: Stop FGM

The Sixth Episode of &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; focuses on raising awareness against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

&ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; is a unique TV program to address critical Social and Health issues in Africa through African Fashion and Art with Purpose community. The objective of the show is to create a culture shift by sensitizing our African communities about a wide range of social and health challenges and topics such as: Diabetes prevention and early detection, promoting a healthy lifestyle, Ending Child Marriage, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Stopping GBV, Ending FGM and Breaking Infertility Stigma, Sustainability, Raising awareness about coronavirus among other social and health issues affecting our continent.

This pan-African show is&nbsp;conceptualized, produced, directed, and hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation&nbsp;to feature Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent guests from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

Our Africa by Merck Foundation TV Program has been broadcasted on,

Mashariki TV, Burundi; BTV, Botswana; GTV, Ghana; GhOne, Ghana; TV3, Ghana; QTV, The Gambia; KTN, Kenya; LNTV, Liberia; Mibawa TV, Malawi; Deffe Media, Mauritius; NBC, Namibia; AYV, Sierra Leone; NTV, Uganda; ZNBC, Zambia

The Fourth Episode of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” focuses on the importance of promoting a Healthy Lifestyle

Dr. Rasha Kelej Workshop - S1 EP4: Promoting Healthy Lifestyle

<h2 class="section-title tv-show-div" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px 0px 22.2px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px 0px 25px;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Merck Foundation Presents Our Africa by Merck Foundation (TV Program)</h2>

View <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-Dr-Rasha-Kelej-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-on-being-named-among-the-100-Most-Impactful-Voices-2026-by-ABCD-Africa-French">French</a> | <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-Dr-Rasha-Kelej-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-on-being-named-among-the-100-Most-Impactful-Voices-2026-by-ABCD-Africa-Portuguese">Portuguese</a> Version

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=main-dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%284%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" />

I am deeply honoured to be included in the &lsquo;100 Most Impactful Voices 2026&rsquo; list. 

I sincerely thank ABCD Africa for acknowledging my work over the past 14 years to build healthcare capacity, transform the patient care landscape, break infertility stigma, empower women, and support girl education in Africa and beyond. This recognition is truly very special to me, and it inspires me to continue my efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people.

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%285%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" />

I also congratulate all the deserving women who have been recognized on this list. Together, we will continue to use our voices to inspire positive change and create a better future for our communities.

This recognition adds to the recent honours, including being named among the &ldquo;100 Most Influential Africans 2025&rdquo; by New African Magazine and the &ldquo;100 Most Influential African Women&rdquo; by Avance Media for the seventh consecutive year. 

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Main+_+Dr+Rasha+Kelej+named+as+one+of+most+influential+Africans.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 600px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Dr+Rasha+Kelej+named+as+One+of+the+100+Most+Influential+African+Women+2025+%285%29.png" style="width: 600px; height: 600px;" />

Through the &ldquo;Merck Foundation More Than a Mother&rdquo; campaign, created to empower infertile and childless women, I work closely with over 33 African and Asian First Ladies who serve as Ambassadors of the initiative. I deeply value our partnership and sisterhood.

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Merck+Foundation+Chairman+and+CEO+with+African+and+Asian+First+Ladies+at+their+Africa+Asia+Luminary%281%29.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 365px;" />

We have provided over 2,500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 underserved specialties, helping to improve access to quality and equitable healthcare.

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Senator+Dr+Rasha+Kelej%2C+CEO+of+Merck+Foundation+with+Oncology+Alumni%283%29.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 399px;" />

Moreover, in partnership with African First Ladies, we have to date provided more than 1,200 annual scholarships to underprivileged yet deserving schoolgirls from 19 countries, helping them complete their education and reach their potential. The program is actively running across several African countries including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, S&atilde;o Tom&eacute; and Pr&iacute;ncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others.

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%282%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" />

I also established the &ldquo;Art and Fashion with Purpose&rdquo; community to address critical health and social issues, including breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending female genital mutilation and child marriage, stopping gender‑based violence, and raising awareness about diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. We have launched several community awareness programs, including Health Media Trainings, songs, children&rsquo;s storybooks, animation films, awards for best media, song, film, and fashion design, and a Pan‑African TV program titled &ldquo;Our Africa.&rdquo;

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Senator+Dr+Rasha+Kelej+with+African+schoolgirl.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" />

Kind Regards, 
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) 
CEO of Merck Foundation 
President of &ldquo;More Than a Mother&rdquo; Campaign

 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%281%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%286%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=dr-rasha-kelej-merck-foundation-ceo-2026+%283%29%281%29.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 795px;" />

To know more about Dr.&nbsp;Rasha Kelej&rsquo;s journey, follow on Social Media 
&nbsp;

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=FB%2825%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/KelejRasha/">@KelejRasha</a>

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Instagram%2822%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rasha_kelej/">Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Webp_net-resizeimage+%288%29%2823%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Rasha_Kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=twitter-x-logo%282%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Rashakelej">Rasha Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Flicker%2812%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rashakelej/">Rasha Kelej</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Threads+Black+Logo.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.threads.net/@rasha_kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;

Message from Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, on being named among the “100 Most Impactful Voices 2026” by ABCD Africa

View <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-Merck-Foundation-CEO-Dr.-Rasha-Kelej-following-her-recent-meeting-with-the-First-Lady-of-Burundi-H.E.-Angeline-Ndayishimiye-French">French</a> | <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-Merck-Foundation-CEO-Dr.-Rasha-Kelej-following-her-recent-meeting-with-the-First-Lady-of-Burundi-H.E.-Angeline-Ndayishimiye-Portuguese">Portuguese</a> Version

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=1%281%29.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 670px;" />

I am proud to share with you the photos from the meeting with the First Lady of Burundi, H.E. ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE recently and recognize her for her efforts to Build Healthcare Capacity, Empower Women, Support Girl Education and Break Infertility Stigma as the Merck Foundation &ldquo;More Than a Mother&rdquo; Ambassador.

Please see all the pictures below:

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2949.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2944.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2945.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2946.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2947.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2950.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2951.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=IMG_2948.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" />

We discussed our long term collaboration and partnership with her Foundation, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education to continue our efforts to build healthcare capacity, provide specialty training to more doctors and empower girls through education. Stay tuned to know more about the launch of our partnership.

Thank you Madam First Lady, my dear sister for the visit and for this valuable meeting.

Kind Regards, 
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), 
CEO of Merck Foundation

To know more about Dr. Rasha Kelej&rsquo;s journey, follow on Social Media 
&nbsp;

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=FB%2825%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/KelejRasha/">@KelejRasha</a>

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Instagram%2822%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rasha_kelej/">Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Webp_net-resizeimage+%288%29%2823%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Rasha_Kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=twitter-x-logo%282%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Rashakelej">Rasha Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Flicker%2812%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rashakelej/">Rasha Kelej</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Threads+Black+Logo.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.threads.net/@rasha_kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;

Message from Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej, following her recent meeting with the First Lady of Burundi, H.E. Angeline Ndayishimiye, recognizing her efforts as the Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Ambassador

View <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-Dr.-Rasha-Kelej-on-Marking-International-Day-of-Girls-and-Women-in-Science-2026-French">French</a>&nbsp;| <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-Dr.-Rasha-Kelej-on-Marking-International-Day-of-Girls-and-Women-in-Science-2026-Portuguese">Portuguese</a> Version

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Dr+Rasha+Kelej+with+African+schoolgirls.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej&nbsp;with African schoolgirls, to&nbsp;mark International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026.

We at Merck Foundation mark &lsquo;International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2026&rsquo; by actively supporting and empowering women in science and technology. Although women have made remarkable progress, they are still significantly underrepresented in these fields. Our mission is to bridge this gender gap and ensure women have equal opportunities to thrive and lead in STEM.

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=International+Day+of+Girls+and+Women+in+Science+2026+-+7.jpg.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 600px;" />

As part of our commitment, we empower women through our Scholarship Program, which provides specialized medical scholarships to African women healthcare providers, and through the MARS Awards, which recognize outstanding African women scientists.

To date, we have provided over 2,500 scholarships to healthcare professionals from 52 countries across 44 critical and underserved specialties, including nearly 1,200 scholarships awarded to women.

Through our Educating Linda Program, in collaboration with my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, we have provided more than 1,200 annual scholarships to deserving but underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, helping them complete their education and reach their potential.

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Main_+Merck+Foundation+CEO+marks+International+Day+of+Girls+and+Women+in+Science+2026.jpeg" style="width: 600px; height: 600px;" />

In partnership with the African First Ladies, we are transforming the patient care landscape in Africa by training young doctors in many critical specialties. I am proud that almost 50% of our total scholarships have been awarded to women healthcare providers. This is a significant step toward reducing the gender gap in science and strengthening women&rsquo;s leadership in STEM.

Every year, we launch the MARS Awards to encourage and recognize the &lsquo;Best African Women Researchers&rsquo; and the &lsquo;Best Young African Researcher&rsquo;. These awards aim to empower women and youth in STEM and advance their research capacity.

We recently hosted the virtual MARS 2025 Award Ceremony, together with our partners Africa Reproductive Care Society (ARCS) and Manipal University, to honor researchers for their contributions to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa.

Watch the MARS 2025 Award Ceremony here:

<div class="videoEmbed" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tps://www.youtube.com/live/RtIiZp-amrM" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

I am also pleased to announce the Call for Applications for the MARS Awards 2026, which will again focus on &ldquo;The Role of Scientific Research in Women&rsquo;s Health and Reproductive &amp; Fertility Care.&rdquo; Through these awards, we aim to further strengthen research capacity and improve public health across Africa.

Apply here for the MARS Awards 2026 <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/Merck-Foundation-Africa-Research-Summit-Application-Form">here</a>:

Additionally, our awareness campaigns&mdash;including children&rsquo;s storybooks, animation films, and songs&mdash;have supported thousands of girls by promoting education and helping end child marriage. awareness songs, and dedicated episodes on this theme through &ldquo;Our Africa&rdquo; by Merck Foundation TV program.

Watch episodes of Our Africa, focusing on Supporting Girl Education:

Episode 2:&nbsp;Ending Child Marriage &amp; Supporting Girl Education 
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g5wpzOr22l0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe>

<div class="videoEmbed" style="text-align: center;">Episode 11:&nbsp;Yes to Girls Education</div>

<div class="videoEmbed" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="videoEmbed"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jGz6yNSik7g" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoEmbed">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoEmbed">Episode 14:&nbsp;Yes to Girls Education

<div class="videoEmbed"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QjwRnP-Zi60&amp;feature=youtu.be" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoEmbed" style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoEmbed" style="text-align: left;">
Kind Regards, 
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) 
CEO, Merck Foundation 
Chairperson, Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS)

&nbsp;
</div>
</div>
</div>

To know more about Dr. Rasha Kelej&rsquo;s journey, follow on Social Media&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=FB%2825%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/KelejRasha/">@KelejRasha</a>

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Instagram%2822%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rasha_kelej/">Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Webp_net-resizeimage+%288%29%2823%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Rasha_Kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=twitter-x-logo%282%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Rashakelej">Rasha Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Flicker%2812%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rashakelej/">Rasha Kelej</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Threads+Black+Logo.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.threads.net/@rasha_kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;

Watch episodes of Our Africa, focusing on Supporting Girl Education here:

Message from CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej on Marking International Day of Girls and Women in Science by Providing 1195 scholarships to women healthcare providers to empower women in Science—International Day of Girls & Women in Science 2026

Watch episodes of Our Africa, focusing on Supporting Girl Education

Merck Foundation provided 1195 scholarships to women healthcare providers to empower women in science - International Day of Girls & Women in Science 2026

Merck Foundation and their “More Than a Mother” Ambassadors, the First ladies of Africa and Asia, mark International Women’s Day 2026

View <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-Dr-Rasha-Kelej-on-marking-International-Day-of-Zero-Tolerance-for-Female-Genital-Mutilation-2026-French">French</a> | <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/CEO-Message/Message-from-CEO-of-Merck-Foundation-Dr-Rasha-Kelej-on-marking-International-Day-of-Zero-Tolerance-for-Female-Genital-Mutilation-2026-Portuguese">Portuguese</a> Version&nbsp;

<img alt="" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Main_Dr+Rasha+Kelej+with+Fashion+Designers+displaying+designs+on+STOP+FGM%282%29.JPG" style="width: 600px; height: 400px;" /> 
CEO of Merck Foundation, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) with Fashion Designers displaying designs on STOP FGM.

I am happy to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026, together with &nbsp;my dear sisters the First Ladies of Africa through our &ldquo;More Than a Mother&rdquo; and &ldquo;Educating Linda&rdquo; programs. 

FGM is a harmful practice that violates the rights and dignity of millions of girls and women across Africa and beyond. It has no health benefits, only harms. Together with my dear sisters, the African Ladies, we are committed to breaking the silence, raising awareness, and empowering communities to stand against this deeply rooted tradition. Together, we can create a future where every girl has the freedom to live a healthy, empowered, and dignified life.

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Through a specially dedicated episode of our very popular &ldquo;Our Africa&rdquo; TV program, we have communicated in detail the harms of FGM and appealed to African communities to stop this harmful practice. &ldquo;Our Africa by Merck Foundation&rdquo; is a pan African TV program&nbsp;conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by me.

I invite you all to watch the special episode on FGM here:

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Moreover, together with African First Ladies, we annually launch our More Than a Mother Awards to recognize the best media work, films, songs, and fashion designs that raise awareness on ending FGM, supporting girls&#39; education, and addressing other sensitive social issues.&nbsp;I encourage the journalists, filmmakers, fashion designers, singers and young talets in these fields to apply for our awards. You may share your work with us <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/Awards-Online-Application-Form">here</a>.

As per WHO, around the world, over 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM. Africa accounts for the largest share of this total, with over 144 million. This accounts to more than 60% of the total cases.

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I firmly believe that education is one of the most essential pillars of women&rsquo;s empowerment and plays a vital role in eliminating harmful practices like FGM, which serve no benefit to anyone. Therefore, through our &ldquo;Educating Linda&rdquo;, in partnership with First Ladies of Africa, we have provided year to date more than 1200 annual scholarships to high-performing and underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and reach their potential. Through these scholarships we have supported the education of girls from several African countries including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, S&atilde;o Tom&eacute; and Pr&iacute;ncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Moreover, we have has benefitted thousands of girls by distributing essential school items, and through their awareness campaign which includes releasing many inspiring children&rsquo;s storybooks, animation films and songs to support girl education. &nbsp;

Read Educating Linda Storybook <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/flipbook-proxy/digital_library/1623068469_6affa28d861b48da41cf.pdf#">here</a>:

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=image%2884%29.png" style="width: 400px; height: 551px;" />

FGM is a harmful practice and must end immediately. Read Merck Foundation Children Storybooks and Listen to Awareness Songs on Supporting Girl Education <a href="https://merck-foundation.com/our-programs/Merck-Foundation-More-Than-a-Mother/Local-Songs-and-Children-Storybooks">here</a>.

Kind Regards, 
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) 
CEO, Merck Foundation

 
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To know more about Senator, Rasha Kelej&rsquo;s journey, follow on Social Media 
&nbsp;

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=FB%2825%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/KelejRasha/">@KelejRasha</a>

<img height="40" src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Instagram%2822%29.png" width="40" />&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rasha_kelej/">Rasha_Kelej</a>

&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Webp_net-resizeimage+%288%29%2823%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@Rasha_Kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=twitter-x-logo%282%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Rashakelej">Rasha Kelej</a>

<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Flicker%2812%29.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" />&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rashakelej/">Rasha Kelej</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://merck-foundation.com/merckfoundation/public/assets/plugins/ckfinder/core/connector/php/connector.php?command=Proxy&amp;type=Files&amp;currentFolder=%2F&amp;fileName=Threads+Black+Logo.png" style="width: 40px; height: 40px;" /><a href="https://www.threads.net/@rasha_kelej">@Rasha_Kelej</a>

Dr. Rasha Kelej, Merck Foundation CEO together with African First Ladies mark ‘International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026’ through their ‘More Than a Mother’ and ‘Educating Linda’ Programs

Message from CEO of Merck Foundation Dr. Rasha Kelej on marking ‘International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026’ through ‘More Than a Mother’ and ‘Educating Linda’ Programs

<h2 class="section-title pr-0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:24px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important 0px 25px;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Messages From Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation</h2>

H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives

The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives

H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED

H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo

The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo

H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI

H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of Republic of Cabo Verde

The First Lady of Republic of Cabo Verde

H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO

H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, The First Lady of Republic of Burundi

The First Lady of Republic of Burundi

H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE

H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA, The First Lady of Republic of Zambia

The First Lady of Republic of Zambia

H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA

H.E. Dr. FATIMA MAADA BIO, The First Lady of Republic of Sierra Leone

The First Lady of Republic of Sierra Leone

H.E. Dr. FATIMA MAADA BIO

H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe

The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe

H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO,  First Lady of the Republic of Kenya

First Lady of the Republic of Kenya

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO

H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Republic of The Gambia

The First Lady of Republic of The Gambia

H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW

H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe

The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe

H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA

H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central African Republic

The First Lady of Central African Republic

H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA

H.E. Mrs. KAONE BOKO,  First Lady of the Republic of Botswana

First Lady of the Republic of Botswana

H.E. Mrs. KAONE BOKO

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation

CEO of Merck Foundation

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej

H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA,  First Lady of the Republic of Ghana

First Lady of the Republic of Ghana

H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA

H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, First Lady of the Republic of Angola

First Lady of the Republic of Angola

H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON

H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia

The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia

H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, First Lady of the Gabonese Republic

First Lady of the Gabonese Republic

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA

H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique

First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique

H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO

<h2 class="section-title pr-0 sidebar-title" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Merck Foundation More Than A Mother ambassadors</h2>

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Merck Foundation More Than a Mother Infertility Awareness Leaflet | English

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Jude Sans Sucre Livre d'histoires| Central African Republic

Mark's Pressure Storybook - General English

Sugar free Jude Storybook - General English

Educating Linda Storybook - General English

<h2 class="section-title pr-0 sidebar-title" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);border-left:2px solid rgb(75, 78, 83);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(75, 78, 83);font-family:times-new-roman;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:300;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:36px;margin:0px;orphans:2;padding:0px 0px !important;position:relative;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Digital Library</h2>

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