Merck Foundation and First Ladies Unite to Transform Healthcare and Empower Girls’ Education in Africa
Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, convened the 7th Edition of its First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit in Accra, bringing together the First Lady of Ghana, H.E. Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama, and 13 First Ladies from Africa.
The high-level gathering, inaugurated by Prof. Dr Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and Senator Dr Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, focused on reshaping patient care and advancing girls’ education across Africa and beyond.
Senator Dr Kelej welcomed Ghana’s First Lady as Ambassador of the “More Than a Mother” campaign, announcing the start of a long-term partnership to build healthcare capacity. She highlighted the 210 scholarships already awarded to Ghanaian doctors in 44 underserved medical fields, including oncology, cardiology, diabetes, critical care, psychiatry, dermatology, and reproductive medicine.
“Together we will continue to bring a revolution in patient care across Ghana,” said Dr Kelej.
First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama expressed gratitude, calling the scholarships “a great milestone” for Ghana. She also noted that under the Educating Linda programme, 20 high-performing but underprivileged girls are being sponsored until graduation, with plans to expand the initiative.
The Summit featured an MFFLI Committee meeting, where First Ladies from Africa and Asia reviewed the impact of Merck Foundation’s programmes and set out strategies to further strengthen healthcare and education initiatives.
Across Africa, Merck Foundation has provided over 2,280 scholarships to doctors from 52 countries, covering more than 44 medical specialities. Beyond healthcare, the Foundation runs awareness campaigns, children’s storybooks, songs, fashion projects, and its “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV programme to tackle issues such as infertility stigma, gender-based violence, diabetes, hypertension, and girls’ education.
The Foundation also launched a call for applications for eight awards in partnership with the First Lady of Ghana, aimed at recognising excellence among media professionals, musicians, fashion designers, filmmakers, students, and other creative talents.
Senator Dr Rasha Kelej reaffirmed Merck Foundation’s mission: “Our vision is for everyone to lead a healthy and happy life. Together with our partners, we are not only transforming healthcare but also breaking taboos and supporting women and girls to build a better future.”
