In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, the Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women and girls across Africa. The foundation, in partnership with First Ladies of Africa, Ministries of Health, Education, Gender, and Communication, continues a 13-year journey of impactful development programs that place women and girls at the forefront of change.
“Empowering girls and women is at the core of all our initiatives,” said Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and one of Africa’s most influential women for six consecutive years. “We recognize the immense potential of women to thrive in any field, yet systemic barriers often prevent them from reaching their full capabilities.”
Among the foundation’s flagship initiatives are:
- ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’, a movement that challenges the stigma of infertility and empowers childless women with education and opportunity.
- Capacity Advancement Program, offering 2,282 medical scholarships across 52 countries — nearly 50% of which have been awarded to women, particularly in underserved specialties.
- Educating Linda, which has provided over 950 scholarships to underprivileged schoolgirls in countries such as Nigeria, Zambia, Ghana, Namibia, and Malawi.
- STEM & MARS Awards, promoting women’s excellence in science and technology and fostering the next generation of African researchers.
“We are proud to have trained 716 doctors in reproductive and sexual health to improve women’s healthcare systems and access. These are the future champions of women’s well-being,” added Dr. Kelej.
The foundation also reaches thousands more through creative awareness campaigns, including songs, animations, storybooks, and TV programs—all designed to inspire a cultural shift in support of education, equity, and empowerment.
As Dr. Kelej emphasized, “We celebrate women every day—not just on Women’s Day—by transforming communities and enabling African girls to become leaders, doctors, researchers, and innovators of tomorrow.”
