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 Farida Yasmin, Merck Foundation More Than a Mother Program Alumni (One Year Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine) from Bangladesh." Dr Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation President of the 'More Than a Mother' campaign youtu.be/XP13xkG_xoU

"I'm honored to share the impactful keynote speech video of H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, the First Lady of Senegal and Ambassador of the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother delivered during the inauguration of the 7th Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit, 2025." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation youtu.be/xQ9fTgcAdOE

"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." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO, Merck Foundation youtu.be/EECcnfqQOdk

"I am pleased to share the inspiring success story of Ms. AWERE GIFTY NANA OWUSUA, Merck Foundation Alumni, Ghana who completed On-Campus Embryology Training under the Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” movement." Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation youtu.be/2kpDLOs7Tn0

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition and to be included in the ‘100 Most Impactful Voices 2026’ 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. 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.” Dr. Rasha Kelej CEO of Merck Foundation

"Je suis très heureuse de lancer le film d'animation "Ride Into the Future", en partenariat avec mes chères sœurs, les Premières Dames d'Afrique. A travers notre nouveau livre de contes pour enfants, nous souhaitons souligner l'importance de l'éducation des filles." Dr Rasha Kelej Merck Foundation CEO Read the full storybook here: merck-foundation.com/merckfoundatio…

"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)