Merck Foundation

"As a part of “More Than a Mother” movement, we have launched many initiatives to break this stigma and create a culture shift. We created Merck Foundation’s unique TV program, “Our Africa” with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa by raising to raise awareness about Infertility, male infertility and breaking Infertility stigma. We also launched media, fashion, song, and film awards, created 30 local songs and 9 children’s storybooks to break infertility stigma. We will continue to empower these women through our social media campaign with 8.5 million followers. It’s all about giving every woman the respect and the help she deserves to lead a fulfilling life, with or without a child.” Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation President of “More Than a Mother”

"I welcome you all to watch the testimonial of Dr. Lelo Pongo, Merck Foundation Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program Alumni, (One Year Postgraduate Diploma in Diabetes) from Zambia." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation youtu.be/h1R6PIgf-Ds

"I'm happy to share the video of my introduction and closing remarks from the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee 2025 in Dubai. Together, we exchanged experiences, insights, and updates on development programs in each of their countries. I also shared my overview and feedback, with a special focus on the impact of our joint programs and the incredible journey of our partnership. I invite you to listen carefully and learn more about our programs." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation President, “More Than a Mother” Campaign youtu.be/mcwrE01wvMk

"I am happy to share this beautiful Merck Foundation More Than a Mother song from Zambia by a very talented singer Wezi. I strongly believe that art and media play significant roles in raising awareness about sensitive topics like infertility, hence will contribute significantly to break the stigma around infertile women in Africa, if utilized properly." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO Merck Foundation youtu.be/TcRAHDuCjak

I welcome you all to watch the testimonial of Ms. Olimatou Bojang, Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program Alumni, (Training in Oncology Nursing) from Gambia. Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation youtu.be/sQg3KTilnoo

"I'm happy to share this video of interaction with my dear sister, Cabo Verde First Lady, H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, sharing her experience, knowledge, and development programs in the country, followed by my overview and feedback with a special focus on the impact of our joint program and partnership journey. Please take time to listen carefully to learn more." Dr. Rasha Kelej Merck Foundation CEO youtu.be/e-qaDR-asx8

"Reflecting on the inspiring moments of 2025. It was exciting to announce the 12th Edition of our annual conference together with my dear sister, Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, the First Lady of Gambia and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia. I am pleased to share that the conference was officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. ADAMA BARROW, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, together with Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of the Merck Foundation Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary

"I’m happy to reshare our powerful song, “No More Sugar”. Composed and sung by myself, Dr. Rasha Kelej, alongside the incredibly talented Cwesi Oteng, this inspiring song continues to amplify the message of our impactful “No Sugar” Campaign, a movement dedicated to raising awareness about healthy lifestyles and preventing diabetes. Music has the power to inspire change, and through “No More Sugar,” we are turning awareness into action. I remain truly proud of this project and the important message it carries and I hope you will love it as much as I do. Enjoy the lyrics to this powerful song." Life is sweeter Without Sugar No more sugar Life is sweet Without sugar no more sugar No more Diabetes Life is sweeter without sugar No more No more diabetes If you really want to be Healthier happier active and beautiful Energy to be Successful. Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation youtu.be/WLnEQoXf9-w

"I welcome you all to watch the testimonial of Dr. Life Zambezi, Merck Foundation Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program Alumni, (One Year Postgraduate Diploma in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine ) from Zimbabwe. "Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program" aims to help improve access to equitable and quality Diabetes, Endocrinology and Hypertension Care in Africa, from UK Universities to doctors from different provinces, counties or districts Asia and Latin America, through providing One-year Postgraduate Diploma and Two-year Master Degree in Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, and Obesity of respective countries, ensuring geographical coverage of the whole country. Additionally, scholarships are provided for One-Year On-site Clinical Training Program in Diabetes & Hypertension, in India. Moreover, French, Portuguese and Spanish-speaking Doctors from Africa, Asia and Latin America are provided with a 3-months Online Mastercourse endorsed by Diabetes UK, in their respective languages. More than 860 scholarships to doctors from 43 countries as a part of the "Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program". On completion of these courses, graduates are able to set up specialty clinics in the Public Sector of their respective countries. 30,000 students from Medical Universities have benefitted from Clinical Diabetes and Hypertension Management Program from 2012 – 2016 in 9 countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Ghana, Angola, Mozambique, India and Indonesia. Can you imagine how many patients they would be able to help!! Each doctor can help at least 2000 families per month. Merck Foundation touches people's lives every day. Congratulations to our Merck Foundation Alumni!” Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation Most Influential African (2019 - 2025)

"Eid Mubarak!" Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation Most Influential African (2019 - 2025)

"I’m honoured to share the highlights from Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) committee, where I met the African and Asian First Ladies and our Ambassadors of the “More than a Mother“ campaign, this video is for the interaction with my dear sister, Mozambique First Lady, H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO sharing her experience, knowledge, and development programs in the country, followed by my overview and feedback with a special focus on the impact of our joint program and partnership journey. Please take time to listen carefully to learn more..." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of the Merck Foundation youtube.com/watch?v=ue_V4t…

"I am happy to share my speech delivered during our visit to Zimbabwe, where we celebrated the 7th anniversary of our meaningful and impactful partnership with H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, the First Lady of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” initiative. Over these seven years, our collaboration has been dedicated to building strong healthcare and media capacity, supporting girls’ education, empowering women, and breaking the stigma around infertility across Zimbabwe. Together, we reflected on our remarkable achievements and marked an important milestone of success and impact since 2018. I am very proud to share that we have transformed the patient care landscape of Zimbabwe by providing 166 scholarships for the local doctors in 44 critical and underserved specialties such as Fertility, Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Respiratory, Acute Medicine, Sexual and Reproductive care, Embryology, Critical care, Psychiatry, and many more. This is a huge milestone and revolution in patient care across Zimbabwe. Moreover, it was a pleasure to honor the Zimbabwean winners of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2022 – 2024 and discuss with them the critical role they can play to create a culture shift, be the voice of the voiceless and be the Merck Foundation health and social champions.” Together, we will continue to create a healthier, stronger, and more equitable future for women, girls, and families in Zimbabwe." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation President, Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” Initiative youtu.be/EECcnfqQOdk

"I'm truly honoured to be recognized as one of the ‘100 Most Influential Africans 2025’. I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional and prominent leaders who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives." Dr. Rasha Kelej Merck Foundation CEO Most Influential African (2019 - 2025)

"I welcome you all to watch the testimonial of Dr. Changwe Mwema Esther, Merck Foundation Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program Alumni, (One Year Postgraduate Diploma in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine ) from Zambia. "Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program" aims to help improve access to equitable and quality Diabetes, Endocrinology and Hypertension Care in Africa, from UK Universities to doctors from different provinces, counties or districts Asia and Latin America, through providing One-year Postgraduate Diploma and Two-year Master Degree in Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, and Obesity of respective countries, ensuring geographical coverage of the whole country. Additionally, scholarships are provided for One-Year On-site Clinical Training Program in Diabetes & Hypertension, in India. Moreover, French, Portuguese and Spanish-speaking Doctors from Africa, Asia and Latin America are provided with a 3-months Online Mastercourse endorsed by Diabetes UK, in their respective languages. More than 860 scholarships to doctors from 43 countries as a part of the "Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program". On completion of these courses, graduates are able to set up specialty clinics in the Public Sector of their respective countries. 30,000 students from Medical Universities have benefitted from Clinical Diabetes and Hypertension Management Program from 2012 – 2016 in 9 countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Ghana, Angola, Mozambique, India and Indonesia. Can you imagine how many patients they would be able to help!! Each doctor can help at least 2000 families per month. Merck Foundation touches people's lives every day. Congratulations to our Merck Foundation Alumni!” Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation Most Influential African (2019 - 2025) youtube.com/watch?v=RqMazn…

"Eid Mubarak!" Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation Most Influential African (2019 - 2025)

"I am very happy to share this beautiful song: ABC and 123 by Namibian talent, Sean K. I have produced this song myself as a message from the Merck Foundation to support Children’s education and gender equality in education. Even in times of war and pandemic, Every child whether a boy or a girl has the equal right to learn and receive an education. No child should be left behind. Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies advocating for the importance of education in general and girls’ education in specific. Together we supporting the education of 20 high performing but unprivileged girls in many countries, through providing school fees, uniforms and books. Even in times of war and pandemic, no child should be left behind." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation youtu.be/4Z2i4Wh-bpk

"Happy birthday to my dear sister, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA @ZimFirstLady, the First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother'. Wish you a hundred years of health, love, and success. Enjoy the day with your family and friends❤️." Your sister, Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO Merck Foundation President of Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother'

"I am delighted to share special moments from my visit to the Exhibition of Handmade Products by talented local Gambian artisans, organized by H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, First Lady of The Gambia, following the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee 2025. It was wonderful to witness the creativity and craftsmanship of Gambian artisans. Stay tuned for more memorable moments from the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation Chairperson, Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary

"I’m delighted to share a truly meaningful interaction with my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, First Lady of the Republic of Liberia, and Ambassador of our “More Than a Mother” Campaign. This discussion took place during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting, held as part of the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025, co-chaired by H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, First Lady of The Gambia, and myself. In this video, you will see H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI share her inspiring experiences, thoughtful insights, and the remarkable progress of our joint programs in Liberia — programs that continue to empower women, enhance access to education, and strengthen healthcare capacity. I also share my reflections on the positive outcomes of our collaboration and how our shared commitment is driving real, sustainable change across Africa. This year marks 13 years of Merck Foundation’s impactful journey — a milestone that fills me with immense pride and gratitude. It was a day filled with unity, purpose, and renewed determination as we continue our mission to uplift women, girls, and communities across the continent. Stay tuned for more memorable moments from this inspiring journey. I invite you to watch this video and witness the strength of partnership, compassion, and vision that define all we do at Merck Foundation." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation President, “More Than a Mother” Campaign youtube.com/watch?v=Z2bH57…

"I am pleased to share the video of my speech during the inauguration of the 12th Edition of the annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary” 2025, in Banjul, The Gambia. The conference was co-chaired by my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. Fatoumatta Bah‑Barrow, the First Lady of The Gambia and myself." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of the Merck Foundation Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary youtu.be/EjvTa9nXCRg

"Happy birthday to my dear sister, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA @ZimFirstLady, the First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother'. Wish you a hundred years of health, love, and success. Enjoy the day with your family and friends❤️." Your sister, Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO Merck Foundation President of Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother'