Latest news with #MoreThanAMother
Zawya
4 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Merck Foundation marks World ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) Day 2025 by providing 716 scholarships of Embryology, Fertility and Reproductive care in 41 countries in Africa and Asia
Merck Foundation has made history by training the first local Embryologists and Reproductive&Fertility Experts in many countries such as The Gambia, Liberia, Burundi, Guinea, Chad, Niger, Sierra Leone, Malawi, and Congo. Moreover, supported training for the staff of First Public IVF Centers in Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Niger, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Merck Foundation launched 'More Than a Mother Animation Film' that raises awareness about breaking infertility stigma, infertility prevention and male infertility, watch here: Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks 'World ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) Day 2025' together with African and Asian First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of 'Merck Foundation More Than a Mother' Campaign, by building and advancing fertility care capacity in Africa and Asia. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of 'More Than a Mother' emphasized, "At Merck Foundation we mark World Assisted Reproductive Technology Day by building Fertility and Reproductive Care capacity and empowering infertile women by improving their access to information, change of mindset and quality&equitable fertility care across Africa&Asia as part of our 'More than a Mother' campaign. I am very proud to share that we have provided till today 716 scholarships of Embryology, Fertility and Sexual&Reproductive care to young doctors from 41 countries in Africa and Asia to be the local Embryologists, Fertility&Reproductive care experts in their countries. Moreover, many of our Alumni were trained to be the first local experts in their countries where they never had even a single local embryologist or fertility specialist before our program such as; The Gambia, Burundi, Guinea, Chad, Niger, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Malawi, Congo , Mozambique and more. Together with African First Ladies, and other important partners, we are making history and reshaping the landscape of fertility&Reproductive care across Africa and beyond', added Dr. Kelej. Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother' is a powerful campaign that defines interventions to build quality and equitable Reproductive and Fertility Care Capacity, Break Infertility Stigma and Raise Awareness about Infertility Prevention and Male Infertility. Merck Foundation has provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. 'To give an overview, out of our total 716 scholarships for Fertility and Reproductive care, we have provided more than 324 Scholarships for clinical and practical training to Fertility Specialists and Embryologists, and more than 392 Scholarships for PG Diploma and Master Degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women's Health, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction&Embryology, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical skills and Family Medicine to doctors from 41 countries across Africa and Asia. We are proud of this achievement', added Dr. Rasha Kelej. According to WHO data, more than 180 million couples in developing countries - that is 1 in every 4 couple, suffer from infertility. In many cultures in Africa, infertility is a huge stigma. Women are solely blamed for failing to conceive and the social stigma of childlessness, especially for women leads to isolation and stigmatization and results in discrimination and ostracism. This mostly also leads to divorce or physical or psychological violence. As a part of 'More Than a Mother' Campaign, Merck Foundation has launched many initiatives to break this stigma and create a culture shift. Merck Foundation has also been empowering childless and infertile women through their 'Empowering Berna' initiative under their 'More Than a Mother' movement. This initiative helps women who cannot be treated for infertility anymore by helping them get trained to establish small businesses so that they can be independent and rebuild their lives. Through 'Empowering Berna', the lives of many infertile women have been transformed in many African countries like Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Niger, Malawi, and many more. 'It's all about giving every woman the respect and the help she deserves to lead a fulfilling life, with or without a child,' added Dr. Kelej. Moreover, Merck Foundation has trained more than 3700 media representatives from more than 35 countries to raise community awareness and break the stigma around infertility and infertile and childless women. Merck Foundation in partnership with Africa's First Ladies, has also launched 'More Than Mother' Children's storybook to emphasize strong family values of love and respect from a young age which will reflect on eliminating the stigma of infertility and the resulted domestic violence in the future. The storybooks have been localized for each country and in three languages, English, French and Portuguese to better connect with the young readers. The book has also been adapted to an animation film. Watch More Than a Mother Animation Film here: Merck Foundation's pan African TV program 'Our Africa', that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and features African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa, has many episodes dedicated to raise awareness about infertility and breaking infertility stigma. Watch the episodes here: Episode 3: Episode 5: Episode 10: Merck Foundation has also released about 30 songs, many of these songs have been created with the aim to break the infertility stigma, as a part of their 'More Than a Mother' campaign. Listen to some of the songs here: Watch, share&subscribe to the 'Plus qu'une MERE' composed and sung by Ms. Lucky-Lou, the daughter of The President and The First Lady of Burundi: Watch, share&subscribe to the 'More Than a Mother' song by Cwesi Oteng and Adina from Ghana: Watch, share&subscribe to the 'More Than a Mother' song by Zambian Soul Singer Wezi: Watch, share&subscribe to the 'More Than a Mother' song by Sunita Daffeh from the Gambia: Listen to all 'More than a Mother' songs here: 'To address this important issue of breaking infertility stigma and also a wide range of other social issues, we annually launch Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother' Awards in partnership with African First Ladies. I would also like to invite the African Community of Media, Fashion, Filmmaking, and Musicians, students, and potential talents in these fields to apply for the awards this year by sharing their creative work on submit@ ', concluded Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Addtional Images: Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669 Email: Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard: Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, 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&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr (
Zawya
6 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Meets Mauritius Minister of Gender Equality & Family Welfare to Launch "Educating Linda" Program, Supporting Education of 20 Deserving yet Underprivileged Mauritian Schoolgirls Girls Until Graduation
During the visit to the country, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Mauritius President to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health. Dr. Rasha Kelej during her meeting with the Mauritius President, strengthened partnership to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare and Empower Women in STEM. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej also met the Mauritius Minister of Gender Equality&Family Welfare to share the impact of their programs to address critical social issues like supporting girl education and Ending Gender Based Violence in the country. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany met Hon'ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare during a high-level meeting, to share the impact of their programs and underscore their long-term commitment to address critical social issues in Mauritius. During her visit, she also met H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health and underscore their long-term commitment to transform public healthcare in Mauritius. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of 'More Than a Mother' Campaign emphasized, 'It was a great honor to meet Hon'ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare and share with her the impact of our partnership and programs since 2017 that aim to transform patient care, build healthcare and media capacity, to empower women in STEM, support girl education and raise awareness about social and health issues in Mauritius and the rest of Africa. I am very happy to share that together with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, we are launching our Educating Linda Program in the country, as a part of which we will be supporting the education of 20 high performing yet underprivileged Mauritian schoolgirls, till they graduate. Through this, we will be empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential.' Merck Foundation has provided 100 scholarships for Mauritian doctors in 44 critical and under-served specialties. 'During my meeting with H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, we also discussed the possibility of providing specialized training for Mauritian doctors in innovative and emerging fields such as Stem Cell Therapy in pathology, CAR T-cell treatment, AI in Radiology, Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Neurology, Nephrology, Urology, and Neurosurgery. We are strongly committed to work closely with Ministry of Health to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare solutions', added Dr. Kelej. The 100 scholarships for local Mauritian Doctors have been provided for One-Year PG Diploma and Two-year Master Degrees in many critical specialties including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual&Reproductive Care, Oncology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Neuroimaging for Research, Sexual&Reproductive Care, Clinical Microbiology and infectious diseases, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Critical Care, Neonatal Medicine, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Advanced Cytopathology and many more. Merck Foundation has so far provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, with many of them becoming the first specialists in their countries. During her visit, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Senior Officials from the Office of Hon'ble Minister of Health, Mauritius. Merck Foundation also conducted the 4 th Edition of their Health Media Training for the Mauritian Media Representatives in partnership with Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius. The training session was conducted to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Diabetes and Hypertension awareness. It was co-chaired by Merck Foundation CEO and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius. During the training session, the Call for Application for 8 important Merck Foundation Awards were announced for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields. The award announced are: Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. Submission deadline: 30 th September 2025. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. Submission deadline: 30 th September 2025. Merck Foundation Film Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. Submission deadline: 30 th September 2025. Merck Foundation Song Awards 'More Than a Mother' 2025: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. Submission deadline: 30 th September 2025. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension', in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension', in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 'Diabetes&Hypertension': All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30 th October 2025. Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at: submit@ For information on the above awards, please visit our website: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669 Email: Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, 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&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare&scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr ( The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej congratulates the Winners of Merck Foundation Media Awards- 125 Winners from 36 Countries announced
Merck Foundation CEO announced call for application of 2025 Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards in partnership with African First Ladies - apply now at submit@ Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the First Ladies of Africa, proudly announced the Winners of their Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 2024 under the categories 'More Than a Mother' and 'Diabetes and Hypertension'. The Awards Ceremony was conducted virtually to honor and celebrate the outstanding contributions of all the winning media professionals. The winners were warmly acknowledged by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the 'More Than a Mother' campaign. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, 'I am truly happy to announce the winners of our Media Awards, together with my dear sisters, The First Ladies of Africa, who are also the Ambassadors of the Merck Foundation 'More Than a Mother' Campaign. This year, we are delighted to celebrate 125 outstanding winners from 36 countries. It brings me joy to see such impressive participation not only from across Africa but also from several Asian and Latin American countries. Congratulations to all our incredible winners! It is a true pleasure to welcome you all as Merck Foundation Alumni. Let's continue to work together to raise awareness about critical social and health challenges, be the voice of the voiceless, and create culture shift in our communities.' Merck Foundation Media Awards launched in 2017, are announced annually, with over 640 Winners from 52 countries celebrated to date. The theme of the 'More Than a Mother' Media Awards is to raise awareness about important social issues like: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending Female Genital Mutilation and/or Stopping Gender-Based Violence. The theme of the 'Diabetes and Hypertension' Media Awards is to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. The Merck Foundation CEO also launched the Call for Applications for the 2025 Media Awards. 'I am pleased to invite entries for the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 – 'More Than a Mother'&'Diabetes and Hypertension', in partnership with the African First Ladies. I look forward to receiving another outstanding round of impactful entries this year as well.' Said Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej. Winners of Merck Foundation "More Than a Mother" Media Recognition Awards 2024 Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; and The First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, H.E. Dr. FATIMA MAADA BIO: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Jennifer Ambolley, The Chronicle, Ghana (First Position) Mackie Muctarr Jalloh, News Times Daily, Sierra Leone (Second position) Alao Abiodun, The Nation, Nigeria (Second position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Dzifa Tetteh Tay, The Spectator, Ghana (First Position) Laudia Sawer, Ghana News Agency, Ghana (First Position) Nyima Sillah, The Voice, The Gambia (Second Position) Isatou Ceesay, The Gambia Point, The Gambia (Third Position) Abigail Arthur, Citi Newsroom, Ghana (Third Position) Odimegwu Onwumere, The Nigerian Voice, Nigeria (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNER Mavis Offei Acheampong, GBC Radio, Ghana (First Position) Joyce Kantam Kolamong, GBC Radio, Ghana (Second Position) Zainab Sunkary Koroma, Star Radio, Sierra Leone (Third Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun, News Central TV, Nigeria (First Position) Alieu Ceesay, QTV, The Gambia (Second Position) Mona Lisa Frimpong, Joy News, Ghana (Third Position) Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi, H.E. Mrs. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA: PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS Precious Kumbani, The Nation, Malawi (First Position) Gresham Ngwira, Freelancer, Malawi (Second Position) Simon Muntemba, Daily Nation, Zambia (Second Position) Charlotte Nambadja, The Namibian, Namibia (Third Position) Silence Mugadzaweta, The Standard, Zimbabwe (Third Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Alain Kabinda, Daily News Agency, Zambia (First Position) Catherine Murombedzi, Freelancer, Zimbabwe (First Position) Alick Ponje, The Times, Malawi (second Position) Wallace Mawire, Pan African Visions, Zimbabwe (Second Position) Hamu Madzedze, 365 Health Diaries, Zimbabwe (Third Position) Kundai Michael Magoronga, Chronicle, Zimbabwe (Third Position) Mlondi Mkhize, Briefly News, South Africa (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Glendah Fadzai Takachicha, Capitalk FM, Zimbabwe (First Position) Tina Nyirenda, Smooth FM, Zambia (Second Position) Sylviah Chisi, Trans World Radio, Malawi (Second Position) Nyasha Mandimutsira, Capitalk FM, Zimbabwe (Third Position) Perina N. Wahara, PL FM, Malawi (Third Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS Keneilwe Pono, YTV, Botswana (First Position) Taati Niilenge, The Namibian, Namibia (Second Position) Lame Lucas, YTV, Botswana (Third Position) Here are the winners from East African Countries: PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS Elizabeth Angira, People Daily, Kenya (First Position) Marco Maduhu, Nipashe, Tanzania (Second Position) Margaret Maina, Nation Media, Kenya (Second Position) Beatrice Philemon Mukocho, The Guardian, Tanzania (Third Position) Vitus Audax, The Guardian, Tanzania (Third Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Kamau Maichuhie, Nation Online, Kenya (First Position) Isabella Maua Chemosit, Freelancer, Kenya (Second Position) Anne Robi, Daily News, Tanzania (Second Position) Nteza Michael, UG Standard, Uganda (Third Position) Benjamin Takpiny, Anadolu Agency, South Sudan (Third Position) Ayele Addis Ambelu, Ethiopian Mass Media Action News, Ethiopia (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Caren Waraba Sisya, Radio Citizen, Kenya (First Position) Mamer Abraham Kuot, Voice of America, South Sudan, (Second Position) Mwanaisha Makumbuli, Highlands FM, Tanzania (Second Position) Fatuma Mustapha Mtemangani, Pambazuko FM, Tanzania (Third Position) Daniel Byiringiro, Flash FM, Rwanda (Third Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER Rose Wangui, NTV Kenya, Kenya (First Position) Andrew Juma, TV47, Kenya (Second Position) Leonard Kigozi and Isabel Nakirya, CGTN Africa, Uganda (Third Position) Mackriner Siyovelwa, Crown Media, Tanzania (Third Position) Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Issa Moussa, Niger Times, Niger (First Position) Koami Agbetiafa, Niger Inter Press Group, Niger (Second Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS AZODODASSI Mêmèdé Ambroisine, Savoir News, Togo (First Position) Julio Gada, Global News, Benin (Second Position) Boris Esono Nwenfor, Pan African Visions, Cameroon (Third Position) Bakari Guèye, Initiatives News, Mauritania (Third Position) Frimo Koukou Djipro, Lelus, Côte d'Ivoire (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Remy RUKUNDO, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (First Position) Magnus MFURANZIMA, ISÔKO FM, Burundi (First Position) Mame Mbagnick DIOUF, Radio Oxyjeunes, Senegal (Second Position) Tanko Worou, Radio SU TII DERA, Benin (Second Position) Moussa KONE, Radio Channel 2, Mali (Third Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS Matthias KABUYA TSHILUMBA, RTDK, DRC (First Position) Here are the winners from Portuguese Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde, H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO: ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Edisângela Tavares, Expresso das Ilhas, Cabo Verde (First Position) Sheilla Ribeiro, Sociedade, Cabo Verde (Second Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Teresa Monteiro Pinto, Rádio Televisão de Cabo Verde, Cabo Verde (First Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNERS ngelo Semedo, Deutsche Welle, Cabo Verde (First Position) Merck Foundation "Diabetes&Hypertension" Media Recognition Awards 2024 Here are the winners from West African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW; and The First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, H.E. Dr. FATIMA MAADA BIO: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Agnes Opoku Saprong, Ghanaian Times, Ghana (First Position) Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Leadership Newspaper, Nigeria (Second Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Muhammed Lamin Touray, Freelancer, The Gambia (First Position) Prince Owusu Asiedu, Adom Online, Ghana (Second Position) Lara Adejoro, The Punch, Nigeria (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Godwin Awuni Anafo, Odadee Radio, Ghana (First Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER Emmanuel Dzivenu Seyram Abla De-Souza, Joy TV, Ghana (First Position) Ezedimbu Karen Ogomegbunem, Africa Independent Television, Nigeria, (Second Position) Lois Abba Sambo, Abuja Broadcasting Corporation, Nigeria (Third Position) Akua Oforiwa Darko, TV3, Ghana (Third Position) Here are the Winners from Southern African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi, H.E. Mrs. MONICA CHAKWERA; The First Lady of the Republic of Zambia, H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA; The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Nancy Kefilwe Ramokhua, The Patriot, Botswana (First Position) Matilda Chimwaza Majawa, Times Group, Malawi (Second Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS June Shimuoshili, Unwrap Online, Namibia (First Position) Tendai Chisiri, Sport Way News Net, Zimbabwe (Second Position) Shireen van Wyk, Shay Blogger, Namibia (Third Position) Prince Kurupati, Pan African Visions, Zimbabwe (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Elvis Howahowa, Times Radio, Malawi (First Position) Stella Mlotha, Trans World Radio, Malawi (Second Position) Here are the winners from East African Countries: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Lucy Johnbosco, Mwananchi, Tanzania (First Position) Christina Mwakangale, Nipashe, Tanzania (Second Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Joan Mbabazi, The New Times, Rwanda (First Position) Leon Lidigu, Nation Online, Kenya (Second Position) Namwalo Daniel Absalom, Kenya News Agency, Kenya (Third Position) Angela Kezengwa, Citizen Digital, Kenya (Third Position) Veronica Mrema, M24 Tanzania, Tanzania (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS Kintu Khalid, Radio Simba, Uganda (First Position) Asha Bekidusa, Bahari FM, Kenya (Second Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER Walter Mwesigye, NTV, Uganda (First Position) Edvesta Tarimo, Tumaini Media, Tanzania (Second Position) Here are the winners from French Speaking African Countries in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE; and The First Lady of Democratic Republic of the Congo, H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI: PRINT CATEGORY WINNERS Konan N'Guessan Attoumgbre Joseph, La Retraite Active, Côte d'Ivoire (First Position) Nkurunziza Moise, Le Renouveau, Burundi (Second Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Bahwa Ferdinand, Le Journal Africa, Burundi (First Position) Abdoulaye Ouédraogo, Queen Mafa, Burkina Faso (Second Position) Richard Manirakiza, l'Agence Burundaise de Presse, Burundi (Second Position) Mapote Gaye, Infomedia27, Senegal (Second Position) Atha Menssan Woffa Assan, Focus Infos, Togo (Third Position) Catherine Aimée Biloa, Échos Santé, Cameroon (Third Position) Nadège Omoladé SANNY, SRTB Online, Benin (Third Position) RADIO CATEGORY WINNERS MVUYEKURE Jean Claude, Radio TV Buntu, Burundi (First Position) Abdoul Razak Sani Oumarou, Radio Saraounia Maradi, Niger (Second Position) Kabamba Ngalamulume Fabrice, Radio Télévision de l'éducation (RTEDUC), DRC (Third Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER Chris IRAMBONA, Radio Television Buntu, Burundi (First Position) Here are the winners from ASIAN Countries: PRINT CATEGORY WINNER Parikshit Nirbhay, Amar Ujala, India (First Position) Revathi Murugappan, Star Health, Malaysia (Second Position) Pooja Biraia, The Week, India (Third Position) ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Rashe Zoe Sophia B Piquero, Cebu Daily News, Philippines (First Position) Roshan Bhandari, Medicoliterature, Nepal (Second Position) Crystal Chow, Undark Magazine, China (Third Position) Here are the winners from LATIN AMERICA Countries: ONLINE CATEGORY WINNERS Adriana Becerra, Agencia Brunch, Mexico (First Position) Rafaela Polo, UOL, Brazil (Second Position) MULTIMEDIA CATEGORY WINNER Roxana Fabiola Lopresti, Channel 9 Televida, Argentina (First Position) Ana Paula Pedrosa, R7, Brazil (Second Position) Details of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2025: 1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition 'More Than a Mother' Awards 2025 Theme for the awards: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/or Stopping GBV at all levels. Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups: Southern African Countries West African Countries East African Countries French Speaking African Countries Portuguese Speaking African Countries Submission deadline: 30th September 2025. 2. Merck Foundation Media Recognition 'Diabetes&Hypertension' Awards 2025 Theme for the awards: Promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Who can apply: Journalists from Print, Radio, Online, and Multimedia platforms from the following groups: Southern African Countries West African Countries East African Countries French Speaking African Countries Portuguese Speaking African Countries Latin American Countries Asian Countries Submission deadline: 30th October 2025. All entries are to be submitted to submit@ Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669 Email: Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard: Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, 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&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare&scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr ( The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Merck Foundation's 7th Edition of First Ladies Initiative Summit Brings Together 14 African and Asian First Ladies to discuss the impact of their programs
Link to Live Stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025: Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7 th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19 th and 20 th June in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of 'Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative' emphasized, 'It is my great honor to welcome our esteemed Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, The First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and Ambassadors of our 'More Than a Mother' campaign to the 7 th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit. Through this important platform, we have collectively exchanged valuable experiences and engaged in meaningful discussions on the impact of our programs, which are aimed at transforming patient care and raising awareness of a wide range of critical social and health issues.' Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, 'At Merck Foundation, our goal is improving overall health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and by providing access to quality&equitable healthcare solutions in the Africa, Asia and beyond. I would like to sincerely thank our Ambassadors and partners. Together, with your unwavering support and collaboration, we will continue to work towards our vision of a world where everyone can lead a healthy and happy life.' The First Ladies of 14 countries, who are also the Ambassadors of 'Merck Foundation More Than a Mother', joined as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. They are: H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, The First Lady of the Republic of Angola H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of the Central African Republic H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of the Gabonese Republic H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej stated, 'I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Many of our Merck Foundation Alumni are becoming the first specialists in their countries. Together with our Ambassadors and Partners, we are making history and transforming the patient care landscape across Africa and beyond. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries.' 'During our Conference, we also marked together the World Infertility Awareness Month, observed in June, through our signature campaign 'Merck Foundation More Than a Mother', which aims to empower infertile and childless women by providing access to information, education, and change of mindset. I am happy to share that out of the total 2280 scholarships, more than 700 scholarships have been provided for training in Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women's Health, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, and Family Medicine, to improve access to fertility care and women's health', she further added. During the 7 th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit, two important occasions were marked; the 8 th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 13 years of Merck Foundation's development programs that started in 2012. On the first day, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit took place, featuring a high-level panel discussion with the participating First Ladies of Africa and Asia. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was held with African Ministers and top healthcare experts from across the globe. The Day 2 of the conference will have three key parallel session will be held- Two medical and scientific sessions covering Oncology and Fertility Topics, and a community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls' Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage&FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness. The conference is being conducted in a hybrid format, enabling over 6,000 audiences from more than 70 countries to benefit, meet and discuss strategies and solutions for the health and social challenges in their countries safely and effectively. Countries participating in the 7 th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative: Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more. The 7 th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative is streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation: @ Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( and YouTube ( @ Rasha Kelej: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( and YouTube ( Link to the Facebook live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through: • 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through: • 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa • 8 Children's Storybooks in three languages - English, French, and Portuguese • 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes&Hypertension and supporting girl education. • Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation' addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through 'Fashion and ART with Purpose' Community • 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Contact: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager +91 9310087613 +91 9319606669 Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, 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&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare&scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr ( The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Zawya
06-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Marking International Women's Day 2025: Merck Foundation's 13-Year Commitment to Empowering Women, particularly Infertile Women and supporting Girls Education
Merck Foundation ( the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany together with First Ladies of Africa who are also their Ambassadors, Ministries of Health, Education, Communication&Gender, mark 'International Women's Day 2025', through their impactful development programs, continuing their 13-year legacy of empowering women and girls. Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and One of the Most Influential African Women for Six Consecutive Years (2019 - 2024) expressed, 'Happy International Women's Day to all the remarkable women and girls around the world! Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives and programs at Merck Foundation. I recognize the immense potential of women to thrive, succeed and excel in any domain they choose, yet they often lack the conducive environment to fully realize their capabilities, especially in underserved communities. Therefore, together with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa, we mark International Women's Day every day since the last 13 years through our development programs and initiatives such as ' More Than a Mother', 'Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement', 'Educating Linda', and 'STEM Program'." "Merck Foundation More Than a Mother" is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education and change of mindset. 'I am thrilled to share that out of the 2,250 scholarships awarded across 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, 1048 scholarships, that is nearly 50% have been granted to female medical graduates, empowering them to become future healthcare experts and leaders. I am especially proud that we have awarded over 701 scholarships to young doctors, dedicated to advancing women's health by strengthening reproductive, sexual health, and fertility care capacity.' Merck Foundation CEO strongly believes that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment. 'I am happy to share that through our 'Educating Linda' Program, together with my dear sisters, our Ambassadors, we are supporting the education by providing over 950 scholarships for high performance and underprivileged African schoolgirls, empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential and also providing essential school items for thousands of schoolgirls in many African countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cabo Verde and more. Moreover, we have benefitted thousands of girls through our awareness campaign through many initiates like the release of inspiring songs, children's storybooks, animation films, TV Program and awards for best media, song, film&fashion designs, all aimed at promoting girl education today for women's empowerment tomorrow', emphasized Senator Rasha Kelej. Merck Foundation also actively empowers women in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence. 'Our goal is to empower women and young African researchers, enhance their research capacity, and promote their contributions to STEM,' emphasized Dr. Kelej. Watch the Episodes of 'Our Africa by Merck Foundation' TV program on Supporting Girl Education: Episode 2: Episode 11: Episode 14: Listen to Merck Foundation song about Supporting Girl Education here: Watch, share&subscribe to the 'Girl Can' song here, sung by two famous singers, Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana respectively: Watch, share&subscribe the ' Like Them ' song here, sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda: Watch, share&subscribe ' Take me to School ' song here, sung by Wezi, Afro-soul singer from Zambia, to support girls' education: Watch share&subscribe ' Tu Podes Sim ' Portuguese song, which means ' Yes, You Can ' in English by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane, singers from Mozambique in English here: Watch the Merck Foundation Animation Films to Support Girl Education : Ride into to Future: Jackeline's Rescue: Read the Merck Foundation storybook addressing the importance of Girl Education: To read Educating Linda Storybook, pls visit: To read Jackline's Rescue Storybook, pls visit: To read Ride into the Future Storybook, pls visit: To read Not Who You Are Storybook, pls visit: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation. Contact details: Mehak Handa Community Awareness Program Manager +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669 Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! Facebook: X: YouTube: Instagram: Threads: Flickr: Website: Download Merck Foundation App: About Merck Foundation: The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, 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&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare&scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook ( X ( Instagram ( YouTube ( Threads ( and Flickr ( The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
