By Lenah Bosibori
Africa’s healthcare systems stand at a crossroads, burdened by limited access, workforce shortages and inequities that continue to hinder progress. But in the midst of these crises the Merck Foundation is driving change through partnerships with first ladies in the region to strengthen medical capacity, empower women, and promote education across the continent.
Speaking during 12th edition of the Merck Foundation Africa-Asia Luminary, which opened in Banjul, The Gambia, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation and one of Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women said that the foundation has provided more than 2,400 scholarships for doctors and healthcare provider.
“We have provided more than 2,400 scholarships for doctors and healthcare providers from 52 countries,” said Dr. Kelej. “These programs have transformed patient care in underserved regions, creating the first specialists in fields like oncology, diabetes, fertility care, and emergency medicine.”
The event, hosted for the first time in The Gambia, was graced by the country’s Vice President Mohamed B.S. Jallow and First Lady Fatoumata Bah-Barrow, who co-chaired the conference alongside Senator Dr. Kelej.
It brought together seven first ladies from Africa, ministers and health professionals from more than 50 countries to discuss ways of transforming healthcare and social development in Africa and Asia.
The Gambia alone has benefited from 94 scholarships, producing specialists who are now transforming care in the country. Dr. Kelej praised the alumni’s dedication, noting that “before our programs, many African countries had no oncologists or reproductive care specialists, today that reality has changed.”
The conference also highlighted the “Educating Linda” initiative, which supports high-performing but underprivileged girls to complete their education. “Education is power,” Dr. Kelej said. “Through our partnerships with First Ladies, we are helping girls achieve their dreams and break barriers.”
“Together with African First Ladies, we are building a future where healthcare, education, and dignity are accessible to all. Every scholarship, every empowered woman, and every educated girl brings us closer to that goal.”
Professor Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chair of Merck Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s long-term commitment to addressing Africa’s healthcare workforce gap.
“Africa bears 24% of the global disease burden but has only 2.9 healthcare workers per 1,000 people,” he noted. “Since 2012, our scholarship programs have been closing this gap by training specialists across 44 underserved medical fields.”
He added that the Luminary serves as a platform to share success stories, strengthen partnerships, and explore sustainable solutions. “What makes this event special is its spirit of cooperation bringing together leaders, experts, and partners to shape strategies that meet Africa’s real healthcare needs,” he said.
The two-day conference featured scientific sessions, discussions on gender and health, and community awareness programs. It also celebrated Merck Foundation alumni who are now serving as the first specialists in countries such as Namibia, Malawi, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Burundi.