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South African rapper Cassper Nyovest kicks off the new year in style with the announcement of his latest luxury car acquisition. Stay tuned for more updates on his impressive ride collection, brought to you by Africazine.

Alexa News Network Limited (www.Alexa.ng), one of Nigeria's fast-rising independent media organizations, has entered into a strategic media partnership with the Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) as part of its expanding commitment to impactful journalism, regional development advocacy, and credible amplification of excellence across the Niger Delta. The partnership positions Alexa News Network Limited as a key media ally for NDAA 8.0, strengthening the Awards' visibility while further consolidating Alexa News Network's role as a trusted platform for developmental narratives, accountability reporting, and recognition of outstanding performance. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in amplifying stories of excellence, leadership, and grassroots impact across Nigeria's oil-rich Niger Delta region. In this landmark partnership that underscores the importance of recognizing impactful leadership in Nigeria's resource-rich Niger Delta region, Alexa News Network (www.Alexa.ng) has joined forces with the organizers of the Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) for its eighth edition. This collaboration highlights the awards as a pivotal platform for fostering excellence, accountability, and sustainable development in a region long plagued by developmental challenges despite its abundant natural resources. Alexa News Network (www.Alexa.ng), plays a pivotal role in boosting visibility for key gatherings that drive Nigeria's digital rise and economic progress. By delivering targeted pre-event awareness, real-time live updates, in-depth expert analyses, and thorough post-event recaps, the platform ensures that events focused on technology, innovation, social media, and economic development receive widespread attention. This multi-phased approach not only amplifies participation and engagement but also shines a spotlight on how these gatherings accelerate national progress—fostering job creation, skill development, policy advancements, and entrepreneurial growth in a rapidly digitizing nation.

At the heart of Alexa News Network's involvement is its multifaceted contribution to the awards' success, leveraging its digital-native strengths to provide unparalleled visibility and engagement. The platform's role begins with robust pre-event awareness and promotion, where Alexa News Network generates widespread buzz through a series of dedicated articles, detailed announcements, nominee spotlights, category breakdowns, and thematic previews. By profiling nominees—from governors, ministers, senators, commissioners, and corporate leaders to media personalities, artists, comedians, and social justice advocates—Alexa News Network ensures that the stories of excellence reach a broad audience. This includes highlighting the awards' emphasis on good governance, innovative investments, enterprise, social justice, and community development. With its engaged readership comprising policymakers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, tech enthusiasts, and community influencers across Nigeria and the diaspora, Alexa News Network drives significant participation in the nomination and voting processes, boosting voter turnout and building anticipation for the grand ceremony.

Alexa News Network's involvement will shine a powerful spotlight on how the NDAA accelerates progress in the Niger Delta. By celebrating those spreading prosperity and advancing the greater good, the awards—and this partnership—foster motivation for continued excellence. They highlight tangible outcomes like job creation through enterprise, policy advancements via good governance, skill development in creative sectors, and community empowerment through social justice initiatives. In a region rich in resources yet facing historical challenges, such recognitions reinforce narratives of hope, collaboration, and transformation.

Alexa News Network is eager to support its growth. Through dedicated promotion, live engagement, analytical depth, and reflective coverage, the platform will ensure the event not only honors deserving contributors but also inspires a brighter future for the region. This partnership exemplifies how media collaboration can drive visibility, celebrate achievement, and contribute to sustainable development.

This media partnerships offer an ideal avenue for Alexa News Network to contribute to the event promotion, enhance coverage, and boost visibility.Through this strategic media partnership, Alexa News Network will play a pivotal role in elevating the visibility, credibility, and impact of the Niger Delta Advancement Awards. Leveraging its proven track record in investigative journalism and regional reporting, the platform is committed to providing comprehensive, multi-phased coverage that builds anticipation, engages audiences in real time, and extends the awards' legacy long after the event. This collaboration aligns perfectly with Alexa News Network's mission to spotlight positive developments, hold power accountable, and foster informed discourse on issues driving the Niger Delta's socio-economic advancement.

The overall value of Alexa News Network in this media partnership cannot be overstated. As a platform with a proven track record in investigative reporting on Niger Delta issues—from governance reforms and economic investments to cultural strides and accountability exposés—Alexa News Network brings authenticity, credibility, and depth to the collaboration. Its reach ensures enhanced visibility for the awards, attracting potential sponsors, increasing public engagement, and elevating the event's prestige. In turn, this partnership enriches Alexa News Network's content with inspiring stories of resilience, achievement, and unity that align perfectly with its mission to inform, empower, and speak truth to power. The platform's dedication to high-quality, fact-based journalism counters misinformation, fosters informed discourse, and highlights positive developments in a region often challenged by historical issues. Alexa News Network's involvement shines a sustained spotlight on how the NDAA accelerates progress in the Niger Delta. By celebrating excellence in governance, enterprise, innovation, and social justice, the awards motivate job creation, skill development, policy advancements, and entrepreneurial growth. Alexa News Network amplifies these outcomes, illustrating tangible impacts like infrastructure leaps, community empowerment, and economic opportunities that contribute to sustainable development. In a resource-rich region navigating transformation, the platform's coverage inspires hope, collaboration, and action, positioning the NDAA as a catalyst for unity and advancement.

Under Jokpeme Joseph Omode's visionary leadership—a journalist with over a decade in media, public relations, and community development—Alexa News Network continues to defy odds, break boundaries, and expand its influence. This partnership exemplifies the platform's passion for regional storytelling, its grit in pursuing excellence, and its resolve to empower audiences through smart, straightforward news. As the NDAA evolves, building on past editions that drew thousands of votes and honored luminaries, Alexa News Network remains a cornerstone ally, delivering coverage that not only honors deserving contributors but also drives a narrative of optimism and progress. In essence, Alexa News Network's role, involvement, and contributions make it an indispensable partner, adding tremendous value by boosting visibility, engagement, and impact. The platform looks forward to sustained collaboration, ensuring the Niger Delta Advancement Awards continues to inspire, unite, and propel the region toward greater prosperity and recognition.

Founded on the principles of independent journalism with integrity, Alexa News Network Limited has continued to carve a distinct identity within Nigeria's evolving media ecosystem. Through its digital-first approach, investigative depth, and people-centered storytelling, the media organization has grown steadily as a platform that not only reports events but contextualizes them for public understanding and policy relevance. The collaboration with the Niger Delta Advancement Awards aligns seamlessly with Alexa News Network Limited's editorial vision of spotlighting excellence, governance performance, innovation, and leadership within Nigeria's oil-rich but often underrepresented Niger Delta region.

Speaking on the partnership, Jokpeme Joseph Omode, the founder and CEO of Alexa News Network Limited described the collaboration as a strategic step toward strengthening development-focused media engagement in the Niger Delta. According to the organization, media partnerships such as this go beyond branding or event coverage; they represent a shared responsibility to document progress, interrogate challenges, and celebrate individuals and institutions that are making tangible impacts in their communities. By partnering NDAA 8.0, Alexa News Network Limited aims to provide sustained, credible, and balanced coverage of the awards process, nominees, voting phase, and the eventual ceremony, while also amplifying conversations around regional development and performance benchmarking.

At the heart of this partnership is Alexa News Network Limited (www.Alexa.ng), a dynamic digital news outlet that has rapidly established itself as a trusted source of insightful journalism in Nigeria and beyond. Founded and led by visionary journalist and entrepreneur Jokpeme Joseph Omode, who serves as both Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief, Alexa News Network Limited has undergone remarkable growth and transformation in recent years.

Over the years, Alexa News Network Limited has demonstrated a growing influence through consistent reporting on governance, economy, culture, youth development, and social accountability. Its expanding audience base across Nigeria and beyond has positioned the platform as an emerging voice in shaping public discourse. The NDAA partnership further reinforces this trajectory, allowing Alexa News Network Limited to leverage its digital reach, editorial professionalism, and storytelling expertise to project the achievements of Niger Delta stakeholders to a wider national and international audience.

The media organization emphasized that the partnership is also part of its broader strategy to collaborate with credible institutions that share similar values of transparency, merit, and public participation. Alexa News Network Limited believes that awards platforms like NDAA, when properly documented and scrutinized, can serve as tools for encouraging healthy competition among public office holders, corporate entities, and community leaders. By bringing media scrutiny and visibility to such initiatives, the organization hopes to promote accountability and inspire improved performance across sectors.

As part of the partnership, Alexa News Network Limited will deliver extensive pre-event, event-day, and post-event coverage, including in-depth features, nominee spotlights, interviews, analytical reports, and multimedia storytelling. The platform will also engage its audience through educational content on the significance of the awards, the voting process, and the broader implications for Niger Delta development. This comprehensive coverage underscores Alexa News Network Limited's commitment to journalism that informs, educates, and empowers the public.

Under Omode's leadership, Alexa News Network Limited has prioritized balanced, insightful journalism that fosters understanding and positive change. The platform's editorial mission emphasizes credible reporting, inclusive storytelling, and impactful narratives that inform, inspire, and unite diverse audiences. This approach has earned it a loyal readership, strategic partnerships, and recognition for its role in amplifying underreported development stories across Nigeria.

A hallmark of Alexa News Network Limited's success is its dedication to development-focused journalism. The outlet frequently profiles initiatives driving economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, youth advancement, and community peacebuilding—themes that align closely with the challenges and opportunities in regions like the Niger Delta. Through in-depth analyses, exclusive interviews, and multimedia content, Alexa News Network connects broader national policies to local impacts, inspiring readers to engage with stories of resilience and transformation.

In 2026, as the world ushered in a new year, Jokpeme Joseph Omode released a heartfelt message reaffirming the platform's core values. He spoke of resilience and empathy as guiding principles, stating, "In 2026, let us embrace resilience to face challenges head-on and empathy to bridge divides. Together, we will continue telling stories that matter—stories of hope, progress, and shared prosperity." Omode expressed profound gratitude to partners, readers, journalists, contributors, and the global audience, crediting their support as the foundation of Alexa News Network Limited's continued success.

This commitment to impactful journalism is evident in the platform's expanding digital footprint. With advanced search engine optimization, social media integration, and a refreshed website design featuring a modern, professional identity, Alexa News Network Limited is positioned to compete with established global news brands while retaining its unique African perspective. The leadership team has assured stakeholders that journalistic integrity, transparency, and truth remain non-negotiable hallmarks.

Alexa News Network Limited's involvement in high-profile events further underscores its influence. The platform has boosted visibility for summits on digital trends, social media's economic role, and technological breakthroughs, capturing pivotal moments that contribute to Nigeria's progress.

This collaboration allows Alexa News Network Limited to shine a spotlight on transformative leaders and initiatives, further solidifying its role as a catalyst for positive change. Through detailed profiles, event analyses, and inspirational features, the partnership will motivate continued excellence in the region. As Alexa News Network Limited continues to evolve, its strategic alliances—like this one with the NDAA—highlight its growing stature in Nigerian and international media. The platform's focus on credible, development-oriented journalism ensures it remains a vital voice in shaping informed public discourse.This partnership not only elevates the Niger Delta Advancement Awards but also reinforces Alexa News Network Limited's position as a premier digital news network dedicated to truth, progress, and unity.

The Niger Delta Advancement Awards, which has successfully organized seven previous editions, is set to host its eighth edition, NDAA 8.0, powered by JUVENIS Magazine/TV. Activities are already underway to reward and celebrate outstanding individuals, corporate bodies, and state governments across the Niger Delta for their performances in the year 2025. The awards cover the nine Niger Delta states: Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River.

In a significant milestone for the 8.0 edition, the Niger Delta Advancement Awards recently unveiled its list of nominees following the conclusion of its call for nominations. The unveiling ceremony, designed as an interactive session, took place at PHLAT4 Event Centre in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. According to the President and Founder of the awards, Mr. Oxford T. Okpalefe, public participation witnessed a remarkable increase during the nomination phase.

Mr. Okpalefe explained that over 50,000 entries were received, largely from Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ondo, Imo, and Abia states. He noted that after the close of nominations, the process moved into sorting of entries, detailed research and evaluation, consultations with relevant stakeholders, and the careful compilation of the final list of nominees. He further disclosed that configurations were put in place for online voting to ensure a seamless and transparent process for members of the public, adding that voting officially commenced on the awards website immediately after the unveiling.

Providing further insight into the scale of the event, Mr. Okpalefe revealed that NDAA 8.0 features 56 categories with a total of 840 nominees competing for honours. He urged all nominees to actively engage in their campaigns and mobilize support, noting that awareness and participation from across the Niger Delta states have grown significantly. According to him, complacency could be costly, as competition across states has become increasingly intense.

This edition features an impressive 56 categories with 840 nominees vying for victory. Mr. Oxford T. Okpalefe encouraged nominees to actively campaign, noting heightened awareness and competition from across the states. "When a nominee relaxes, you never can tell what the nominee in another state is doing," he warned, underscoring the fierce inter-state rivalry.

The grand event is scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Center in Port Harcourt, continuing the tradition of hosting in the Rivers State capital unless sponsored by another state government. Public voting is now open on the official website, where visitors can select their preferred nominees in each category.

The NDAA 8.0 covers a broad spectrum of fields, reflecting the multifaceted contributions to the region's growth. In entertainment, categories like Best Music Producer feature talents such as Pat Peaz (Cross River) for "Kasongo," Erigga (Edo) for "Up Iweka," and several Rivers State producers like Humble Beat and Fresh King Beatz. Best Movie Producer nominees include prominent figures like Walter Anga and Al-Ameen Hussain. Music Video Director highlights include State Filmz (Rivers) and Erigga (Edo), while Comedy Skit of the Year pits viral acts like MC Habakkuk (Rivers) against Home of Lafta (Edo).

Music-centric awards dominate with Song of the Year contenders like "Abella" by Pyrex Kyddah ft. Duncan Mighty (Rivers), "E No Ma So" by O'Fresh (Delta), and "Up Iweka" by Erigga ft. Phyno (Edo). Next Rated Artiste showcases emerging stars such as Kay Frizy (Delta) and Hvntar (Ondo), while Next Rated Comedian includes MC Intelijent (Rivers) and Funny Timo (Delta).

Media excellence is recognized through categories like Best TV Reporter, with nominees including Deborah Agbalama (Rivers) and Esther Chima (Abia), and Best Radio Presenter featuring Akas Baba (Rivers) and Bros Tata (Abia). Station awards honor top performers, such as Silverbird Television (Rivers) for Television Station of the Year and Naija 92.7 FM (Rivers) for Radio Station of the Year.

Business and corporate sectors are well-represented, with Hotel of the Year nominees like Portland Resorts (Rivers) and Four Points by Sheraton (Akwa Ibom), and financial institutions vying for Best Bank, Best Microfinance Bank, and Best Pension Fund Administrator. Construction, Oil & Gas, Real Estate, and Insurance companies from across the states compete fiercely, highlighting economic drivers like Belema Oil (Rivers) and Craneburg Construction (Imo).

Influencer categories celebrate digital stars, with Macro Influencer of the Year including MC Habakkuk (Rivers) and Mega Influencer featuring MC Mbakara (Cross River). Fashion Designer of the Year spotlights Jazz Effect Design (Rivers) and Da Kulture Empire (Edo).

Public service and leadership awards form a core part of the event, honoring politicians and traditional rulers. Governor of the Year nominees include H.E. Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), H.E. Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and H.E. Alex Otti (Abia). Senator of the Year features Sen. Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) and Sen. Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa). Traditional Ruler of the Year recognizes monarchs like HRM Ogiame Atuwatse III (Delta) and HRM Oba Ewuare II (Edo).

Other prestigious honors include Man of the Year, with contenders like H.E. Pastor Umo Eno and Engr. Jack-Rich Tein Jr. (Rivers), and Amazon of the Year celebrating women leaders such as Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori (Delta) and Dr. Gloria Diri (Bayelsa). Young Person of the Year acknowledges rising stars like Harrison Gwamnishu (Delta) and Sabinus (Rivers).

On the venue and timing of the event, Mr. Okpalefe reiterated that having rotated across the Niger Delta states in previous editions, the awards will now be hosted annually in Port Harcourt, except in cases where a state government sponsors and hosts the event. He confirmed that Niger Delta Advancement Awards 8.0 is scheduled to hold on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Center, Port Harcourt. He encouraged the public to visit the official website for comprehensive details and to participate actively in the voting process by selecting nominees of their choice.

As preparations intensify and voting gathers momentum, the media partnership with Alexa News Network Limited is expected to significantly enhance the reach, credibility, and impact of NDAA 8.0. For Alexa News Network Limited, the collaboration represents another milestone in its mission to amplify stories that matter, promote excellence, and contribute meaningfully to the development narrative of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Network.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19^th and 20^th June in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative” emphasized, “It is my great honor to welcome our esteemed Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, The First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and Ambassadors of our ‘More Than a Mother' campaign to the 7^th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit.

Through this important platform, we have collectively exchanged valuable experiences and engaged in meaningful discussions on the impact of our programs, which are aimed at transforming patient care and raising awareness of a wide range of critical social and health issues.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “At Merck Foundation, our goal is improving overall health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and by providing access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in the Africa, Asia and beyond. I would like to sincerely thank our Ambassadors and partners. Together, with your unwavering support and collaboration, we will continue to work towards our vision of a world where everyone can lead a healthy and happy life.”

The First Ladies of 14 countries, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, joined as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. They are:

• H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, The First Lady of the Republic of Angola
• H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
• H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of the Central African Republic
• H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of the Gabonese Republic
• H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
• H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana
• H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya
• H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
• H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives
• H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique
• H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
• H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal
• H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej stated, “I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 2500 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Many of our Merck Foundation Alumni are becoming the first specialists in their countries. Together with our Ambassadors and Partners, we are making history and transforming the patient care landscape across Africa and beyond. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries.”

“During our Conference, we also marked together the World Infertility Awareness Month, observed in June, through our signature campaign “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, which aims to empower infertile and childless women by providing access to information, education, and change of mindset. I am happy to share that out of the total 2500 scholarships, more than 700 scholarships have been provided for training in Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women's Health, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, and Family Medicine, to improve access to fertility care and women's health”, she further added. 

During the 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit, two important occasions were marked; the 8^th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 13 years of Merck Foundation's development programs that started in 2012.

On the first day, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit took place, featuring a high-level panel discussion with the participating First Ladies of Africa and Asia. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was held with African Ministers and top healthcare experts from across the globe.

The Day 2 of the conference will have three key parallel session will be held- Two medical and scientific sessions covering Oncology and Fertility Topics, and a community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls' Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage & FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.

The conference is being conducted in a hybrid format, enabling over 6,000 audiences from more than 70 countries to benefit, meet and discuss strategies and solutions for the health and social challenges in their countries safely and effectively.

Countries participating in the 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative:

Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.

The 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative is streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4q2rvZt), X (https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3LaSlQa), X (https://apo-opa.co/4qm5RzT), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4jsY14Q) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4qm5Qfj).

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2500+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 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 Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs
• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
• 9 Children's Storybooks in three languages - English, French, and Portuguese
• 6 Awareness Animation films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.
• 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 to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies
• 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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:
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/44SJjhm

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/4q2rvZt), X (https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3N47XFC) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/49ApldU).

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.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, and Zimbabwe.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) expressed, “I was a pleasure meeting my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” for the 7^th Edition of our Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. I am proud to share that provided 244 scholarships for local Kenyan doctors in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility & Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Gastroenterology, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Neonatal Medicine, Urology, Pain Management, Critical Care, Rheumatology and more. And around 50% of these scholarships are provided to female healthcare providers which is a great milestone of women empowerment.”

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother emphasized, “I am very proud of our partnership with Merck Foundation. Together, we are strengthening and transforming our public healthcare landscape, through the 244 scholarships provided for our doctors. This is an extraordinary milestone that will leave a lasting impact on the quality and accessibility of healthcare across our nation.

Additionally, we are also working together to support girl education by providing annual scholarships to 47 best-performing but underprivileged girls, as a part of Educating Linda program. This is extremely important as Education is the way forward to empower our girls.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/3LkbX4n

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) receiving H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/4aK6BK6

On day 2 of the Summit, 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 and Asian 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/44UAUdc

Together with Kenya First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 224 scholarships for young doctors in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of the 244 scholarships:

• 123 scholarships have been provided for one-year PG Diploma and two-year Master degree in Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology and Endocrinology for Kenyan doctors from different provinces across the country.  Upon completion of their training, many Merck Foundation Alumni have gone on to open their own specialized clinics. These experts not only provide much-needed care, but also play a crucial role in raising awareness about the prevention and early signs of diabetes.
• 10 Scholarships have been provided for Oncology to develop and support the cancer care capacity in the country, a very critical speciality considering the increasing number of the cancer patients in the country and the continent.
• 46 scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology, and one-year PG Diploma and two-year Master degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, as a part of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” Campaign.
• Moreover, 64 Scholarships of one-year Online PG Diploma and two-Year Master degree provided in many other critical and underserved specialties like Gastroenterology, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Neonatal Medicine, Urology, Pain Management, Critical Care, Rheumatology and more, as part of their Capacity Advancement Program.

Overall, Merck Foundation has so far provided 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties.

“We have always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and have been working for it since 2012. We will continue to build and enhance healthcare capacity in the Kenya and the rest of the Africa and beyond", added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation has also conducted 3 editions of their Online Health Media Training, to emphasize on the important role of media to address these critical social and health issues and be the voice of the voiceless.

Moreover, Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya, Merck Foundation has also launched seven children's storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline's Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark's Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks will soon also be launched in Swahili language.

The 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4jqMtib), X (https://apo-opa.co/4jtCsB0), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4jttm7t), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/49hHjAt).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/44YNHLH), X (https://apo-opa.co/3LkioEy), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4aJg8B9), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4aJNHCZ).

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2500 Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers  from 52 Countries in more than 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 Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children's Storybooks in three languages - English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community.

• 1200+ 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 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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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/4jqMtib), X (https://apo-opa.co/4jtCsB0), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4jttm7t), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/49hHjAt), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4qgDpPF) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/49h5ZsY).

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.

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By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org).

Two breakthrough offshore discoveries in Namibia in 2022 — one by Shell and one by TotalEnergies — marked an important milestone for the country's future energy landscape and for Africa's broader upstream ambitions.

The excitement generated by high-impact discoveries creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire continent. I'm convinced that the ongoing interest we're seeing today in African exploration and production (E&P) stems in part from the major discoveries in Namibia, alongside recent successes in Côte d'Ivoire, Angola, and Egypt.

When you factor in advances in E&P technology, the promise of newly emerging basins, and the continued strength of Africa's established producing regions, there are genuine reasons to feel confident about the future of African oil and gas.

That sentiment is reflected in the African Energy Chamber's 2026 Outlook Report, "The State of African Energy," which projects renewed momentum in the continent's upstream market during the next several years. According to the report, global E&P capital expenditure (capex) is forecast to reach approximately USD504 billion by 2026, with Africa contributing about USD41 billion.

Africa's hydrocarbon production is expected to remain stable at roughly 11.4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) through 2026, and new projects are on track to increase output toward 13.6 million boe/d by 2030.

Yes, the report acknowledges that optimism is being tempered by caution. Keen to protect their balance sheets, investors are scrutinizing opportunities closely. But overall, the potential for sustained upstream expansion is truly promising for African states with petroleum reserves. The key will be doing as much as possible to attract the capital needed to pursue the next wave of discoveries.

Frontier and Emerging Basins Signal Strong New Potential

As investors weigh their options, the most compelling signs of progress are coming from Africa's frontier and emerging basins.

In Namibia's Orange Sub-Basin, where more than 6 billion boe have been discovered in less than four years, operators are preparing the next wave of high-impact wells. Côte d'Ivoire, meanwhile, is seeing a surge of activity around its recent deepwater finds.

Egypt, which already has long history as a producing state, is experiencing fresh momentum in underexplored offshore acreage. Earlier this year, drilling in the Herodotus Basin confirmed gas at the Nefertari-1 well.

Even in Libya, where hydrocarbons have been produced for decades, frontier acreage remains. BP and Eni aim to spud the Matsola-1 ultra-deepwater gas prospect later this year. If it delivers, the well could pave the way for deeper Sirte Basin exploration and reduce geological risk across the broader Gulf of Sirte.

"The continent continues to offer up new frontiers, all of which may draw exploration capital," our Outlook report notes. "Places to keep an eye on are the ultra-deepwater portion of the Congo Fan in Angola, the Gabon–Douala Deep Sea Basin offshore São Tomé and Príncipe, the Namibe Basin in Namibia and Angola, the Herodotus Basin offshore Egypt and the offshore portion of the Sirte Basin.

"Others that have already played host to exploration cycles may still present significant opportunities in a similar fashion to the Côte d'Ivoire–Tano Basin. One example is the MSGBC Basin, where over 9.5 Bboe was discovered between 2014 and 2019, but which is still viewed as immature in terms of exploration."

Still, prospects alone are not enough. To translate discoveries into development, Africa must confront the operational and investment challenges that stand in the way.

Data, Imaging, and a New Era of African Prospecting

As encouraging as the upstream outlook is, Africa's geology remains complex, and that complexity can shape how and where companies invest. In parts of West Africa, for example, thick layers of salt can distort seismic signals and make it difficult to identify potential reservoirs with confidence. And in the far south, strong offshore currents can interfere with seismic acquisition itself, degrading data quality and forcing operators to invest in more advanced imaging and noise-reduction technologies.

But as our Outlook report notes, technology is starting to change these dynamics. "Recent advancements in seismic acquisition, processing technologies, and drilling capabilities have enabled exploration efforts over the past decade to target more intricate prospects at greater depths in Africa as elsewhere," it states.

These advances have been helping oil and gas companies de-risk prospects once considered too complex or too costly to pursue.

Emmanuelle Garinet, TotalEnergies' vice president for exploration in Africa, has pointed to Namibia as a prime example of how high-resolution seismic imaging and advanced subsurface modeling can reshape exploration strategies. She noted that the company's decision to drill the Venus prospect — which lies within the Namibian portion of the Orange Sub-Basin — was possible because the technical data provided enough confidence to reduce uncertainty ahead of drilling. The results validated that choice: the 2022 Venus-1 discovery, estimated at 1.5 to 2 billion barrels of recoverable oil, stands as the largest ever made in sub-Saharan Africa. Its scale has reshaped expectations for what may still be unlocked across the Orange Sub-Basin.

The trend is also visible offshore Angola, where better subsurface imaging and advanced drilling systems are opening deepwater and ultra-deepwater opportunities in heavily salt-influenced geology. Azule Energy aims to drill the Kianda prospect in late 2025. If the ultra-deepwater test succeeds, it could pave the way for exploration across a vast area — more than 30,000 square kilometers — previously viewed as high risk.

The Capital Challenge: Competing for Global Investment

But geological complexity isn't the only factor shaping investment decisions. Political and security challenges persist in several countries — among them Nigeria, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo — and can materially affect both operations and capital flows. Add to that the lack of clarity around monetization and industrialization pathways, and it becomes clear why some investors remain cautious.

The Outlook report notes that upstream capital spending in Africa has risen consistently over the past three years as the sector recovers from the pandemic-related lows of 2020. Even so, worldwide investment growth has not kept pace with the strong cash flows generated by upstream operations. Analysts from firms like Wood Mackenzie and Deloitte all describe the same pattern: Companies are channeling a significant share of their cash flow into dividends, buybacks, and debt reduction instead of chasing growth at any cost.

In short, Africa is competing for capital at a time when global investors are more disciplined than ever.

In this environment, African states cannot simply assume that interest in our geology will translate into final investment decisions. We must move quickly to capitalize on today's E&P appetite by reducing above-ground risks, providing clear monetization and industrialization pathways, and building stable, predictable frameworks that give investors the confidence to commit for the long term.

The window of opportunity is open, but it will not stay open forever.

"The State of African Energy: 2026 Outlook Report" is available for download. Visit https://apo-opa.co/4aKVLn1 to request your copy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.