Merck Foundation Hosts 7th MFFLI Summit With 13 First Ladies
Summit strengthens healthcare, education, and social initiatives across Africa and Asia.
The Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, recently held the 7th Edition of its First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit in Accra, Ghana. The event, inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO and President of MFFLI, brought together First Ladies from 13 African and Asian countries, including Ghana, Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, and Zimbabwe. The summit focused on advancing healthcare capacity and addressing social issues across the regions.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej welcomed H.E. Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s First Lady, appointing her as an Ambassador for the “More Than a Mother” campaign, which aims to break infertility stigma and empower women. The Foundation has provided 210 scholarships to Ghanaian doctors in 44 critical specialties, including oncology, diabetes, and cardiology, to enhance patient care. Additionally, through the Educating Linda program, 20 underprivileged schoolgirls in Ghana are receiving educational support until graduation, fostering their potential and addressing gender disparities.
On the summit’s second day, a committee meeting with the First Ladies and Merck Foundation leaders reviewed the impact of ongoing programs and strategized future initiatives. The Foundation has awarded over 2,280 scholarships to doctors from 52 countries, transforming healthcare access in underserved areas. In Ghana, 75 scholarships support diabetes and hypertension clinics, while 64 focus on fertility and reproductive care, and 12 target oncology training, addressing rising cancer rates.
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The summit, streamed live on Merck Foundation’s social media, also launched seven children’s storybooks tackling issues like infertility stigma and gender-based violence. Eight awards were announced for media, musicians, and filmmakers to promote awareness. The Foundation’s efforts underscore its commitment to equitable healthcare and social progress, maintaining a non-political stance while collaborating with regional leaders.
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