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Dr. Rasha Kelej discusses with Nigeria First Lady their joint programs to build healthcare and media capacity and Support Girl Education at 12th Merck...
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, recently conducted the 12th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia. The conference was co-chaired by H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of More Than a Mother. The First Lady of Nigeria, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, along with The First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Senegal joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.
Dr. Rasha Kelej said, “I was delighted to meet my dear sister, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother', at our 12th Africa Asia Luminary 2025. We discussed our joint programs to build and advance healthcare capacity by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors. I am proud to share that till now we have provided 82 scholarships for local Nigerian healthcare providers in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women's Health, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Psychiatry, Care for Older Person and Pain Management. Together, we will continue to work closely to transform future of patient care in Nigeria.”
H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother' emphasized, “I deeply value our meaningful partnership with Merck Foundation and also appreciate all their programs. I am particularly excited about Educating Linda Program through which we will be providing annual scholarships to 71 of our top-performing but under privileged schoolgirls in secondary school until their graduation. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations, this is one of the key objectives of my office's strategy. Moreover, I am happy to share that Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for our healthcare providers, in many critical specialties.”
Watch the Video of The First Lady of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Day 2 of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/48BplbY
Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother': https://apo-opa.co/3KcysI3
On Day 1 of the conference, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 took place, featuring keynote speeches of First Ladies of Africa. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was also held with African Ministers to discuss the Merck Foundation African Research Summit MARS strategy to build scientific research capacity and empower women in STEM with special focus on scientific research.
On Day 2 of the conference, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.
Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4oElHUK
Together with Nigeria First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for local doctors in Nigeria in many critical and underserved specialties. Summary of 82 scholarships:
- 14 Scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology and one year diploma and two-year master degree in Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women's Health and Family Medicine. These scholarships are very critical for enhancing women's health in general, and reproductive health in particular.
- 39 scholarships are being provided one year diploma and two-year master degree of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, under the Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes Blue Points Program. Upon completing the course, these doctors can establish diabetes or hypertension clinics within their respective health centers or hospitals, which will enable them to provide essential care, helping to prevent and manage these conditions within their own communities.
- 3 scholarships have been provided for Oncology Research, Medical Oncology and Pain Management, as part of Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program.
- Moreover, 26 scholarships have been provided for Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Infectious Diseases, Psychiatry, and Care for Older Person.
“Merck Foundation has always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and has been working for it since 2012. We have so far provided more than 2400 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. We will continue to provide scholarships of doctors from Nigeria and beyond,” added Dr. Kelej.
Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.
Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria, Merck Foundation is launching their children's storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline's Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, “Mark's Pressure”, and “Ray of Hope”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. Thousands of copies of the storybooks will be distributed to school children.
The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.
@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3XAwioE), X (http://apo-opa.co/4oBhf94), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48RAlmL), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/48QWLoe).
@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/49RgxB0), X (http://apo-opa.co/3XALMJk), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/49SMqJq), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4ptjNYb).
Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/49Ru6Ap
Summarizing Merck Foundation's initiatives and impact:
Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:
- 2400+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 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 Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
- 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.
- Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
- 9 Children's Storybooks in four languages - English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili
- 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.
- Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
- 1040+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential
- 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers.
Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/49XcBPe
X: https://apo-opa.co/449mdmb
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/49T8Fit
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4479a4I
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3MaIOJ7
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 www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/49XcBPe), X (https://apo-opa.co/449mdmb), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/49T8Fit), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4479a4I), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4pUTLgt) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4pj42Tz).
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.
Eritrea: International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed
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International Day of Persons with Disabilities, 3 December, has been observed today in Asmara at the national level under the theme “Holistic Participation of Persons with Disabilities for Development.”
Mr. Mihreteab Fesehaye, Director General of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, said that before the International Day of Persons with Disabilities came into effect at international level, in Eritrea there had been customary laws in place for a long time that respected the equitable rights and human values of citizens with disabilities. He also said that the day serves as a reminder to acknowledge the situation and challenges of persons with disabilities and to conduct coordinated efforts for prevention and support.
Mr. Abdullahi Mohammed Yussuf, UNICEF Representative in Eritrea, for his part, said that across the world, persons with disabilities are not passive recipients of assistance; they are innovators, leaders, and agents of change, and that efforts should be made to ensure that children with disabilities have equal access to education, health care, protection, and participation.
Mr. Abdullahi also commended Eritrea's strides to ensure that nationals with disabilities have inclusive access to education and community-based rehabilitation services.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is being observed for the 30th time at the national level.
The event featured exhibition of paintings, ceramics, and other artifacts produced by citizens with disabilities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.Binance Launches ‘Binance Junior’ Crypto Savings Account for Kids and Teens
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Binance (www.Binance.com) today announced the launch of Binance Junior (https://apo-opa.co/49UWuBE), a new parent-controlled app and sub-account for kids and teens, ages 6-17, that offers parents a family-centric platform to build crypto wealth and savings, helping prepare their children for a digital financial future. Binance Junior allows parents to open and manage crypto savings accounts on behalf of their children, enabling young users to save and earn crypto in the account through Binance Flexible Simple Earn, while restricting trading activities to ensure safety.
Parents can fund the Binance Junior account via their master account or through on-chain transfers. By offering controlled early exposure to savings and digital assets, Binance Junior empowers parents to invest in their children's financial future and nurture positive saving habits. As crypto becomes increasingly integrated with mainstream finance, this new product aims to provide young users with a strong foundation in personal finance and digital asset education, promoting long-term financial literacy and readiness for the evolving economic landscape.
“As parents who love our children, we not only nurture them in their early development but long-term growth with responsibility and wisdom—helping their ability to face real life challenges independently where financial health and literacy are key to preparing them for the future, especially as money is evolving,” said Binance co-CEO Yi He. “Today, parents can take the first steps to prepare for their children's financial future and equip them for the future financial landscape. Binance Junior is a family finance initiative that helps parents build crypto wealth and savings for their children and encourages them to teach and practice healthy financial habits for the next generation into adulthood.”
Designed for both crypto-native parents and those new to digital assets, Binance Junior helps them begin their digital finance journey as a family in a secure environment with parental control and monitoring via a simplified interface, with safety measures in place. Binance Junior users aged 13 and above can initiate transfers on their app, with a higher age criteria where required by local regulations, and with daily limits applied. Trading is not permitted and transfers to non-parental adult users are also restricted. Parents will be notified of every transaction from their Junior account and have the ability to disable their child's Junior account at any time, immediately halting all transfers.
As part of Binance's continued mission to educate people about the world of digital assets, while preparing the next generation for financial health and wealth under its broader family finance initiative, it has released a self-published book, “ABC's of Crypto.”
The “ABC's of Crypto” is an educational book designed as a children's book for anyone who is interested in learning about crypto and illustrating how crypto can be “as easy as ABC.” The book breaks down fundamental terms in crypto, from security and blockchain technology to types of coins, in a fun and easy-to-understand way—encouraging families to learn together in their digital finance journey.
Binance Junior will be available in select countries via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. For more information on features and how to get started, visit: https://apo-opa.co/49UWuBE.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Binance.About Binance:
Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 290 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means.
For more information, visit: www.Binance.com
Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI to discuss 2026 strategy and share programs’ impact to Train Healthcare Providers, Support Girl Education and Break...
- The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary was officially inaugurated by the Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mr. MUHAMMAD B. S. JALLOW and Merck Foundation Chairman, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp.
- The conference was co-chaired by The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej and attended by The First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Senegal, as Guests of Honor.
- The conference was attended by close to 1,600 participants including healthcare providers, policymakers and media from 52 English, French, and Portuguese speaking countries, who benefited from three parallel scientific and social sessions to advance healthcare capacity and awareness in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Additionally, the conference had 2.25 million viewers online from 53 countries, further amplifying its impact and extending access to knowledge and dialogue across continents.
- Merck Foundation celebrated the 13-year journey of their development programs, during 2025 Luminary.
- Watch the video of MFFLI Committee Meeting held during the 12 Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025: https://apo-opa.co/3K4UBrK
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 12th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia in Banjul, The Gambia. The conference was inaugurated by H.E. Mr. MUHAMMAD B. S. JALLOW, Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia, together with Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and co-chaired by H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Gambia and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of African countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers:
- H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, First Lady of the Republic of Burundi
- H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, First Lady of Central African Republic
- H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
- H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBI, CON First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
- H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
- H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal
On Day 2 of the Summit, the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Committee (MFFLI) was conducted.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Co-Chairperson of 12th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 emphasized, “It was a privilege to convene the Merck Foundation Africa First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting together with our Chairman and my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, who are also our Ambassadors of the ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother'.
During the meeting, we evaluated the impact of our ongoing programs and discussed the 2026 strategy to further strengthen healthcare and media capacity and address critical social and health issues including Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage and FGM, Stopping GBV, Empowering Women, and raising awareness about health concerns such as Diabetes and Hypertension.” Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/3MyQTao
Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of the Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, expressed, “It was truly encouraging to hear from the First Ladies of Africa and Asia about the significant progress made in their countries through Merck Foundation's initiatives and the meaningful impact these programs have had nationally.” Watch the video of Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/48RzWzN
H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Republic of The Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother, also the co-chair of the luminary emphasized, “I am delighted to welcome my dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa, along with the Merck Foundation CEO and Chairman, to my country. MFFLI is a vital platform that allows us to reflect on our achievements and discuss the way forward.
I take pride in my partnership with Merck Foundation, through which we are reshaping our public healthcare system and making history by providing scholarships for our very first specialists in crucial fields such as oncology, fertility, and more. Merck Foundation has provided 94 scholarships for Gambian doctors in many critical specialties. Moreover, we are also providing annual scholarships for 40 deserving yet underprivileged girls, helping them to complete their education and achieve their full potential.” Watch the video of The Gambia first Lady during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/4pJ2LVx
Merck Foundation also released a new children's storybook and its animation film adaptation titled “Ray of Hope” to raise awareness about cancer, with a special focus on early detection, prevention and access to quality cancer care specially in childhood cancer. The storybook and animation film were released by Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Senegal.
Read ‘Ray of Hope' storybook here:
Watch ‘Ray of Hope' animation film here:
During the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Committee (MFFLI) committee meeting, the African First Ladies shared the progress of Merck Foundation programs in their countries and discussed the 2026 strategy.
H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I'm proud to join my sisters on this esteemed platform. Each time I get an opportunity to learn more about Merck Foundation's impactful programs and their far-reaching benefits. I'm pleased to share that Merck Foundation has provided 29 scholarships for our young doctors in Oncology, Diabetes, Fertility, and Embryology, and I'm eager to scale up this effort. I am also happy to launch the Merck Foundation Community Awareness initiatives tin my country to be raise awareness about critical social and health issues. Moreover, we have started the Educating Linda program and are providing annual scholarships to 40 underprivileged but high performing schoolgirls.” Watch the video of The First Lady of Senegal during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/4otdlza
H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother stated, “I am honored to be part of this prestigious platform and to bring Merck Foundation's impactful programs to my country as the Ambassador of the More Than a Mother campaign. Through the Educating Linda and Lindo program, we are annually supporting the education of 40 high-performing yet underprivileged girls and boys, giving them the chance to complete their studies and follow their dreams. Merck Foundation has also started to enroll our local doctors for specialty trainings. This is the first time we are working on such programs in our country.” Watch the video of The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/4iveowZ
H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I found the discussions during the MFFLI Committee Meeting truly inspiring and motivating. I'm deeply impressed by the impact Merck Foundation has made in Nigeria, particularly the 81 scholarships for our young doctors in vital fields such as Fertility, Oncology, and Diabetes and many more. I am also deeply passionate about girls' education, and through the Educating Linda program, we are currently providing annual sponsorships to support the education of 71 high-performing yet underprivileged schoolgirls. I am happy to empower the deserving girls in our country.” Watch the video of The First Lady of Nigeria during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/49RWT82
H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I truly value this platform as it helps us share our progress and shape the way forward. Through our partnership with Merck Foundation, we've provided 52 scholarships for doctors in Fertility, Embryology, Oncology, and Diabetes care, and we are now look forward to expanding into additional critical specialties. We also remain committed to supporting girls' education, with 40 deserving schoolgirls currently being benefiting from the Educating Linda program annual scholarships.” Watch the video of The First Lady of Liberia during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/48vCAuQ
H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central Africa & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother emphasized “As one of the early members of this esteemed platform, I remain committed to working closely with Merck Foundation to build healthcare capacity by supporting scholarships for our doctors. I'm also deeply invested in the ‘Educating Linda' program, through which we're sponsoring 40 underprivileged schoolgirls in our country. I look forward to expanding these initiatives to further amplify their impact.” Watch the video of The First Lady of Central African Republic during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/4rvWL4r
H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, First Lady of the Republic of Burundi & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I'm truly pleased to engage in meaningful discussions with my dear sisters on the impact of our partnership with Merck Foundation. I'm proud to share that we've provided 244 scholarships for Burundian doctors and will continue expanding this support across 44 critical specialties. We also deeply value the Educating Linda program, through which we are providing annual scholarships for 40 high-performing yet underprivileged schoolgirls. Promoting girls' education remains a shared priority for all of us.” Watch the video of The First Lady of Burundi during the MFFLI Committee Meeting in The Gambia: https://apo-opa.co/4ao1VJp
The conference was held in a hybrid format and was attended by close to 1,600 participants including healthcare providers, policymakers and media from 52 English, French, and Portuguese speaking countries, who benefited from three parallel scientific and social sessions to advance healthcare capacity and awareness in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Additionally, the conference had 2.25 million viewers online from 53 countries, further amplifying its impact and extending access to knowledge and dialogue across continents.
The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.
@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3K8379r), X (http://apo-opa.co/3K83913), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48cQp2e), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/48Mu1gc).
@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48cQq6i), X (http://apo-opa.co/4rxIXq3), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/48yTWXz), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3XuA7LW).
Link to the Facebook live stream of Inaugural Session of 12th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary: https://apo-opa.co/49SorKy
Summarizing Merck Foundation's initiatives and impact:
Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:
- 2400+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 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 Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
- 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.
- Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
- 9 Children's Storybooks in four languages - English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili
- 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.
- Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
- 1100+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential
- 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers.
Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3KANvv6
X: https://apo-opa.co/3KtbgVN
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/48tKPHM
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4amxa7J
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/3MacuWI
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4ivx0gB
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/49SK0dM
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 www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3KANvv6), X (https://apo-opa.co/3KtbgVN), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48tKPHM), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4amxa7J), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3MacuWI) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4ivx0gB).
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.
Breaking: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Mandisa Maya, other Leaders Named African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year 2025
African Leadership Magazine (ALM) (www.AfricanLeadershipMagazine.Co.UK) is excited to announce the winners of the African Persons of the Year (POTY) 2025 Awards, concluding a rigorous three-stage process that included continent-wide public nominations, a comprehensive editorial review, and a highly competitive global online poll that closed on 30 November 2025. This year's exercise recorded exceptional engagement from Africans across the world, underscoring widespread public interest in celebrating leadership excellence across governance, business, philanthropy, innovation, and public service.
The ALM Persons of the Year Awards is Africa's premier public-choice recognition, celebrating leaders whose vision, courage, and innovative actions in 2025 are shaping the continent's development trajectory. Among the distinguished honourees, H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, and H.E. Mandisa Maya, Chief Justice of South Africa, emerged as recipients of African Political Leader of the Year and African Female Leader of the Year, respectively. The 2025 winners collectively embody a pan-African community of trailblazers whose work spans sectors and geographies but aligned a shared commitment to advancing sustainable development, strengthening institutional resilience, and driving inclusive economic growth on the continent.
In his statement, Dr. Ken Giami, Publisher of African Leadership Magazine, highlighted that “As Africans, we must champion our own stories and recognise those shaping the continent's future. This year's awardees exemplify leadership that strengthens institutions, drives innovation, safeguards peace, and unlocks opportunity — showing what is possible when Africans lead with vision, courage, and purpose.”
The winners and runners-up will be formally presented with the awards trophy and instruments of honour during the flagship annual African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year awards ceremony, scheduled for 27–28 February 2026 in Accra, Ghana. The highlights of the event would include the POTY awards presentation, high-level plenary, business investment showcases, states and countries' investment opportunities showcases, roundtable discussions, and multi-networking sessions, as well as an unveiling of the African Leadership Magazine special POTY edition.
The African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Ceremony is Africa's premier annual celebration of visionary leadership and excellence, convened by African Leadership Magazine (ALM). Now in its 15th year, the event brings together heads of state, policymakers, corporate leaders, and development partners to recognise individuals and institutions driving people-centred, transformative leadership across the continent. The 2026 edition promises to be bigger than previous editions as it projects to host over 400 delegates and reach a global digital audience of more than one million through live streaming and media partnerships, spotlighting transformative governance, peacebuilding, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.
The 2025 AFRICAN LEADERSHIP MAGAZINE PERSONS OF THE YEAR — FULL LIST OF WINNERS
African Political Leader of the Year
- Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia — Winner
- Patrice Talon, President of Benin — 1st Runner-up
African Female Leader of the Year
- Mandisa Maya, Chief Justice of South Africa — Winner
- Esperança da Costa, Vice President of Angola — 1st Runner-up
African Educationist of the Year
- Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor, Makerere University — Winner
- Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir, Minister of Education, Somalia — 1st Runner-up
Africa Peace & Security Leader of the Year
- Mbaye Cissé, Chief of the General Staff, Armed Forces of Senegal — Winner
- Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson, AU Commission, Djibouti — 1st Runner-up
African Industrialist of the Year
- Samuel Dossou-Aworet, Founder & Chairman, Petrolin Group, Benin — Winner
- Phuthuma Nhleko, Chairman, Phembani Group, South Africa — 1st Runner-up
African Philanthropist of the Year
- Mr. Samuel Tafesse, Founder, Sunshine Investment Group, Ethiopia — Winner
- Mensa Otabil, Founder, International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Ghana— Runner-up
Young African Leader of the Year
- Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Nigeria — Winner
- Darshan Chandaria, Group CEO, Chandaria Group, Kenya — 1st Runner-up
African Public Sector Leader of the Year
- Debele Kabeta, Commissioner, Ethiopian Customs Commission — Winner
- Charles Anosike, DG/CEO, Nigeria Meteorological Agency — 1st Runner-up
African Public Health Champion of the Year
- Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health, Namibia — Winner
- Mekdes Daba Feyssa, Minister of Health, Ethiopia — Runner-up
African Agricultural Development Leader of the Year
- Girma Amente, Minister of Agriculture, Ethiopia — Winner
- Bruno Linyiru, DG, Agriculture & Food Authority, Kenya — 1st Runner-up
African Government Minister of the Year
- Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Minister of Finance, Sierra Leone — Winner
- Lee Maiyani Kinyanjui, Cabinet Secretary, Kenya — 1st Runner-up
African Lawmaker of the Year
- Austelino Tavares Correia, President, National Assembly, Cape Verde — Winner
- Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Nigeria — 1st Runner-up
Special African Philanthropist Icon Award
- Rali Mampeule, Founder/CEO, South African Housing & Infrastructure Fund — Winner
Young African Philanthropist of the Year
- Wicknell Chivayo, CEO, Intratrek, Zimbabwe — Winner
For media and other enquiries, contact:
Ehis Ayere
Group General Manager
African Leadership Magazine UK
ehis@africanleadershipmagazine.co.uk
+44 203 051 1883
About African Leadership Magazine:
The African Leadership Magazine, published by the African Leadership Organisation (UK), focuses on presenting the best of Africa to a global audience, telling the African story from an African perspective while developing solutions to the continent's current challenges. We have committed the last 19 years to promoting impactful leadership on the continent and promoting African opportunities globally through an ecosystem of quality Afro-positive content, Africa trade facilitation and market entry solutions, Afro-centric communities and business networking platforms, as well as through public sector training and consulting.
Actis, Trade Development Bank (TDB) and Performances Group Join MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025
As major energy projects advance across the MSGBC region, nations are gearing up for the next phase of development. The upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition – taking place in Dakar from December 8-10 – will not only showcase emerging opportunities but connect global finance to regional projects. Key executives from across Africa's investment, financial services and infrastructure space will participate at the event, underscoring renewed confidence in MSGBC energy opportunities.
Speakers include Sadio Wade, Vice President of Energy Infrastructure at Actis; Antoine John Esther, COO-West and Central Africa at the Trade Development Bank (TDB); and Aïda Mbaye, Senior Manager-Strategy, Performance Group. Their participation highlights MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025's role as the premier forum for investment, partnership and project development in the region and is expected to unlock new opportunities for strengthened capital expenditure and partnerships.
Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region's oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
TDB recently advanced several initiatives to drive capital towards Africa's frontier oil and gas markets. In October, the financial institution partnered with the Angola Sovereign Wealth Fund to create the Angola Export and Trade Development Facility, mobilizing capital for strategic sectors including logistics, agro-industry and regional integration. Operating in eastern and southern Africa, TDB plays a critical role in fostering trade, regional integration and sustainable development through the provision of trade finance, project and infrastructure finance, asset management and business advisory services. In April 2024, the bank signed a MoU to foster collaboration in the financing of trade and development in Senegal. The agreement establishes a framework for encouraging collaboration and sustainable economic growth in energy, infrastructure, healthcare, education, financial institutions, agriculture and food security.
Meanwhile, Actis has been a key player in renewable energy in the MSGBC region. Through its former portfolio company Lekela Power, Actis developed the 159 MW Taiba N'Diaye wind farm in Senegal, which reached full commercial operation in 2021 and now supplies electricity to more than two million people. Actis successfully exited Lekela in March 2023, transferring ownership to Infinity Power, while maintaining its focus on sustainable infrastructure investment and long-term development in the region.
Performances Group supports energy and infrastructure projects across the MSGBC region with strategic, operational and project performance services. The company works closely with local stakeholders to optimize management, investment efficiency, improve operational delivery and support infrastructure and industrial development within complex regional markets.
“Actis, TDB and Performances Group continue to demonstrate leadership in advancing energy and infrastructure development across the MSGBC region and we are pleased to welcome Sadio Wade, Antoine John Esther and Aïda Mbaye to this year's program,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director, Energy Capital & Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.Categories
