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Merck Foundation Chairman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and 14 First Ladies inaugurate the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit...
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19th and 20th 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 7th 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 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit, two important occasions were marked; the 8th 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 7th 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 7th 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.
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/4q2rvZt
X: https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw
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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.
Shifting Global Agendas Are Slowing African Projects – Mozambique Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Shows the Cost
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Political shifts in major international financing centers are reshaping who funds Africa's energy future, with the Mozambique LNG project illustrating how policy swings abroad can delay development timelines and raise costs. Africa's large oil and gas developments – often reliant on export credit agencies and support from foreign governments – are especially exposed. The prolonged disruptions surrounding Mozambique LNG demonstrate how evolving climate policies, security assessments and domestic political agendas in external jurisdictions can slow progress, increase financing costs and complicate long-term planning.
The TotalEnergies-led project has faced years of setbacks, beginning with the 2021 insurgent attack in Cabo Delgado and continuing through a carefully staged redesign and restart process. In early 2025, the U.S. Export-Import Bank approved a near-$5 billion loan to support the project's revival, signaling Washington's renewed willingness to back major natural gas developments.
Yet only months later, the UK took a sharply different stance, withdrawing its previously committed $1.15 billion in financing, citing elevated security concerns and shifts in climate-policy guidance. The reversal reintroduced uncertainty to the project's already complex financial structure and complicated Mozambique's timeline for restoring momentum.
These contrasting decisions – one government reinstating support while another steps back – highlight the challenge African governments and project developers now face. Project viability increasingly hinges not only on strong technical fundamentals, but also on political cycles, climate-policy debates and shifting investment mandates in lending jurisdictions. When export credit agencies or foreign governments adjust their positions due to domestic pressures, the immediate consequences include re-evaluated lending terms, delayed contracting schedules and heightened risk perception among commercial financiers.
For Mozambique, the implications are significant. Rebuilding financing commitments after a major participant exits increases project costs and extends timelines. Uncertainty also affects domestic planning, from future revenue projections to job-creation expectations. Operators must expand efforts to demonstrate improved security conditions, strengthened community engagement and robust environmental safeguards.
Across the continent, investor sentiment is shaped by these international policy swings. African energy leaders increasingly observe that political volatility in external markets has become a core component of project risk. Some governments are turning to alternative financiers – including multilateral institutions and capital providers in regions with more stable natural gas investment positions – though those options may come with different terms, geopolitical considerations or longer approval processes.
In this evolving landscape, platforms like African Energy Week (AEW) play a critical stabilizing role. AEW has emerged as a central venue where governments, financiers, operators and policymakers can align on investment priorities and respond collectively to global policy uncertainty. The 2026 edition in Cape Town – focused on enhancing energy security and building resilient investment frameworks – offers a valuable opportunity to develop new financing structures, risk-mitigation tools and frameworks that protect African projects from external policy reversals.
AEW also helps clarify expectations between African governments and international partners. Stakeholders increasingly emphasize the need for predictable long-term financing frameworks, clearer alignment between climate-policy objectives and development support, and mechanisms that shield large-scale projects from abrupt shifts in foreign political agendas. Growing interest in regional financial instruments, multilateral guarantees and African-led investment platforms reflects a broader push to reduce reliance on single-jurisdiction decisions.
The experience of Mozambique LNG underscores how global energy and political debates can directly affect Africa's capacity to build and sustain critical infrastructure. While the continent continues advancing ambitious exploration, LNG and natural gas development plans, long-term progress will depend on a more stable international financing environment and stronger Africa-led coordination. AEW 2026 provides a timely venue to advance that agenda – but consistent commitments from global partners will be essential to translating strategy into fully executed projects.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Merck Foundation and African and Asian First Ladies released “Ray of Hope” in Three Languages to Raise Awareness on Cancer Early Detection and prevention...
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, 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 launched by Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Senegal, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting. The MFFLI Committee Meeting was organized as part of the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, which took place in The Gambia.
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “I am very proud to release today our new children's storybook and animation film on cancer awareness, in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies.
While Childhood cancer is one of the most difficult journeys, not only for young patients but also for their families and communities. Yet, with early detection and timely treatment, there is a good chance of recovery and the possibility of a long and healthier future as majority of Pediatric cancer are treatable. Therefore, I made sure that providing scholarships of cancer care for African healthcare providers is a main part of our strategy. Not only this but also to focus on Pediatric oncology training as much as we can.”
“Our storybook, “Ray of Hope” highlights this objective via sharing the journey of a young girl named Hope, who faces cancer with courage, resilience, and, above all, hope. The story also raises awareness about the importance of having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs which you will know about when you read this storybook. These signs should never be ignored, as early detection saves lives,” she added.
Read ‘Ray of Hope' storybook here: https://apo-opa.co/3YFto2a
Watch ‘Ray of Hope' animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4pTEQDz
Cancer is now a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, with the disease among the three leading causes of premature death.
Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “It is important to note that nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be treated if diagnosed early, and as many as one-third can be prevented by reducing risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, lifestyle-related causes, and more. The story raises awareness about the importance of early detection and having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs. “
As a part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation provided 239 scholarships for healthcare providers from 35 countries as per the following;
Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.
Moreover, Merck Foundation provides one year and two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.
“We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first Oncologists and building the first cancer care teams in several nations, ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve.” Dr. Kelej added.
Merck Foundation has over all provided more than 2500 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
“The storybook and animation film are currently available on our social media and website and will be distributed soon in our partner countries. I believe that education through storytelling and animation is a powerful tool to build a more informed, empathetic, and healthier generation,” added Dr. Kelej.
The storybooks will have a special message from Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, and African and Asian First Ladies for their respective countries. Each storybook will be available in three languages English, French and Portuguese. The copies of these books will be distributed to young readers.
Merck Foundation together with Agrican and Asian first Ladies has previously launched several storybooks and their adapted animation films addressing various health and social issues like ‘More Than a Mother' to break infertility stigma; ‘Jackline's Rescue' to focus on the importance of Girls' Education and highlight the immoral practices of society including child marriage and the dowry system; ‘Educating Linda' & ‘Ride into The Future' to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education; ‘Not Who You Are' to teach boys to love and respect their future wives and eliminate domestic violence and ‘Sugar Free Jude' for Diabetes Awareness, ‘Mark's Pressure' for Hypertension Awareness.
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:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4qiZiNL
X: https://apo-opa.co/4pcT8xH
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4saeJtz
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Y9BBvr
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/49g41t0
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/44HSLE7
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3YIzH58
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/4qiZiNL), X (https://apo-opa.co/4pcT8xH), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3Y9BBvr), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4saeJtz), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/49g41t0) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/44HSLE7).
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.
New African Magazine of United Kingdom (UK) recognizes Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Rasha Kelej as One of ‘100 Most Influential Africans...
- The President of Angola, H.E. JOÃOLOURENÇO, The President of South Africa, H.E. CYRIL RAMAPHOSA, The President of Ghana, H.E. JOHN MAHAMA and Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej recognized amongst the 100 Most influential Africans 2025 by New African Magazine, UK.
- Dr. Rasha Kelej, Merck Foundation CEO recognized for the seventh consecutive year as one of 100 most Influential African. 2025 recognition is by New African Magazine of UK, along side president of Angola, Ghana and South Africa.
- The list of 100 Most Influential Africans 2025is made up of prominent African Leaders in different sectors such as Public office, Business, Technology, Change Makers, Thinkers and Opinion Shapers, Creative and Sports influencing the communities and sectors with their inspirational work.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans, by the prestigious New African Magazine (UK).
The special edition spotlights the individuals shaping Africa's present and future. The publication's correspondents and collaborators have scanned the length and breadth of the continent to identify 2025's human gems—leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose influence and impact continue to drive transformation across Africa and beyond.
Speaking about the recognition, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “I am deeply honoured to be recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African (UK), and to be named alongside the esteemed leaders of our continent, including the Presidents of Angola, Ghana, and South Africa, as well as many other change makers. Congratulations to all.”
She further emphasized, “This recognition is very special to me, as it acknowledges my continued efforts to build and strengthen healthcare capacity, empower women living with infertility, and support girl education through our Merck Foundation programs. It only encourage me and motivate me and my team to strengthen our commitment to continue my efforts to create lasting, equitable impact across Africa for generations to come.”
Under Dr. Rasha Kelej ‘s leadership, Merck Foundation has been running impactful programs like their “Scholaship Program for Healthcare Providers” to transform the patient care landscape and improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in Africa and beyond; their signature “More Than a Mother” movement that she created in 2015 to build quality and equitable Reproductive and Fertility Care Capacity, Break Infertility Stigma, Raise Awareness about Infertility Prevention & Male Infertility, and Support Girl Education; and “Educating Linda” program to support girl education.
Over the past 13 years, Dr. Rasha Kelej has worked closely with more than 33 African and Asian First Ladies as Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” in their countries, to lead their programs and key partners including Ministries of Health, Information, Education & Gender, Academia, Policymakers, International Fertility Societies, Media and Art from over 52 countries.
“I am delighted to share that we have provided 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries, across 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. I am proud that many of our alumni have become, or are on their way to becoming, the first specialists in their respective countries. We are building a lasting legacy in Africa.” She added.
Through the “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” campaign which is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education, health and change of mindset, Dr. Kelej has been working closely with partners to create a culture shift and transforming fertility care and women health landscape in public health nationwide in 42 African and Asia countries.
“We have provided out of the 2500 scholarships, 770 scholarships for healthcare providers from 42 countries, of clinical training of Fertility care and Embryology, and One year PG Diploma and two-year Master Degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women's Health, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction & Embryology, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical skills and Family Medicine. These specialists are critical to advance quality and equitable women health in general and reproductive and fertility care in particular.” Senator, Rasha Kelej explained.
Moreover, Merck Foundation has also supported childless women by helping them start their own small businesses through “Empowering Berna” program.
“It is all about giving every woman the respect and support she deserves to lead a fulfilling life, with or without a child, she added.
Moreover, Dr. Kelej is a strong advocate for Education as one of the most critical areas of women empowerment. Therefore, in partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation provided year to date more than 1200 annual scholarships to high-performing and underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and reach their potential. Countries such as; across several African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe and other.
Dr. Rasha Kelej is a trailblazer whose vision and dedication have transformed lives across Africa. She is celebrated for her pioneering initiatives that tackle some of the continent's most pressing social and health challenges like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending child marriage, gender-based violence & female genital mutilation, and advancing women's empowerment.
Through her remarkable leadership, Dr. Kelej has united the media, fashion, and arts communities to be the voice of the voiceless. Her unique initiatives including a Pan-African TV program, Health Media Training, Annual Awards for best media, song, fashion design and film, awareness songs, children's storybooks, and animations films have created a culture shift in communities.
A true visionary, Dr. Kelej inspires and educates over 8.5 million social media followers, keeping them engaged with empowering and awareness content. Her tireless commitment, innovative approach, and unwavering passion continue to reshape the social and health landscape, leaving a legacy of hope, empowerment, and progress across Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of for Africa.Social Media:
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3YGnzSc
Sentor, Dr. Rasha Kelej Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3MUVYKo
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/44DQXvT
For more information on Merck Foundation, please visit: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Youth Charter Launches “From Luanda to Legacy”: A Global Campus Campaign for Africa’s Youth – beyond the 4th African Youth Games
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The Youth Charter Community Campus (www.YouthCharter.org), the global movement using sport, culture and digital innovation for social development and peace, today announces the launch of its “From Luanda to Legacy” Global Campus Campaign, aligned with the 4th African Youth Games and extending far beyond the Closing Ceremony.
Hosted in Angola across Luanda and five additional cities, the 4th African Youth Games represent a defining moment for Africa's young people. Taking place in the year Angola marks 50 years of independence, the Games unite youth from across the continent in a powerful expression of solidarity, aspiration and African identity.
The Youth Charter calls on African institutions, governments, National Olympic Committees, corporate partners, development agencies and global allies to seize this moment, not just to celebrate sport, but to secure a lasting legacy for Africa's next generation.
From Games to Global Legacy
The “From Luanda to Legacy” campaign positions the African Youth Games as a launchpad for long-term youth and community development, embedding sport within education, health, culture, enterprise and digital inclusion.
“Africa's youth deserve more than moments of inspiration. They deserve systems, spaces and opportunities that endure,” said Geoff Thompson MBE FRSA DL, Founder and Chair of the Youth Charter.
“This campaign is about converting continental celebration into community impact — from Luanda to every village, township and city across Africa.”
The Youth Charter Global Campus Vision
At the heart of the campaign is the Youth Charter Global Community Campus model, a proven framework that transforms sporting moments into permanent community assets.
Key Legacy Commitments
1. African Youth Community Campuses
- Repurposing Games and training facilities into inclusive Community Campuses
- Integrated provision of sport, education, arts, health and enterprise
- Safe spaces for young people to learn, lead and innovate year-round
2. Youth Leadership & Pathways
- Leadership forums and mentorship programmes linked to the Games
- Clear pathways from African Youth Games → Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games → global opportunity
- Empowering athletes as community leaders and role models
3. Digital Africa Youth Platform
- Connecting young people across borders through digital learning, coaching and storytelling
- Pan-African youth dialogue rooted in Olympic values, peace and social cohesion
- Building a connected ecosystem of youth, educators and partners
4. Economic & Social Impact
- Youth employment and skills development in sport, media, technology and events
- Support for youth-led enterprises in sport, culture and tourism
- Health, wellbeing and inclusion programmes targeting the most marginalised communities.
A Call to African & Global Partners
The Youth Charter invites African and international partners to co-create this legacy through:
- Public–private partnerships
- CSR and ESG-aligned investment
- Education and skills collaboration
- Infrastructure and digital innovation
- Monitoring, evaluation and impact reporting aligned to the UN SDGs
This campaign aligns directly with:
- African Union Agenda 2063
- UN Sustainable Development Goals
- UN Youth 2030 Strategy
- IOC Olympism 365
- Sport for Development and Peace (SDP) frameworks
Beyond Luanda - A Continental Movement
“From Luanda to Legacy” is not confined to one host nation or one event. It is a pan-African and global movement, designed to:
- Strengthen youth ecosystems across Africa
- Build resilient communities through sport
- Position African youth at the heart of global development and peacebuilding
“Africa's greatest legacy will not be medals won, but lives transformed,” Thompson added. “Together, we can ensure the African Youth Games are remembered as the moment Africa chose legacy over spectacle.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Youth Charter.For Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement:
Youth Charter – Community Campus
www.YouthCharter.org
contact@youthcharter.org
Follow the Campaign:
#FromLuandaToLegacy
#YouthCharter
#AfricaYouth
#SportForDevelopment
#Olympism365
#International Olympic Committee
#Olympism
#Fight4theStreets
#YoungLivesLost
#Call2Action
#LegacyOpportunity4All
#SportDevelopmentPeace
#Empowerthenextgeneration
#CommonwealthSecretariat
#UNSustainableDevelopmentGoals
About Youth Charter:
The Youth Charter is a UK registered charity and UN accredited non-governmental organisation. Launched in 1993 as part of the Manchester 2000 Olympic Bid and the 2002 Commonwealth Games, the Youth Charter has Campaigned and Promoted the role and value of sport, art, culture and digital technology in the lives of disaffected young people from disadvantaged communities nationally and internationally. The Youth Charter has a proven track record in the creation and delivery of social and human development programmes with the overall aim of providing young people with an opportunity to develop in life.
Specifically, The Youth Charter Tackles educational non-attainment, health inequality, anti-social behaviour and the negative effects of crime, drugs, gang related activity and racism by applying the ethics of sporting and artistic excellence. These can then be translated to provide social and economic benefits of citizenship, rights responsibilities, with improved education, health, social order, environment and college, university, employment and enterprise.
African Development Fund mobilises a historic $11 billion, marking a new era of African ownership and investment-led development
The African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional financing arm of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org), has secured a record $11 billion from 43 Partners for its 17th Replenishment (ADF-17), the largest in the Fund's history, despite severe global fiscal constraints and declining aid budgets.
The outcome represents a 23% increase over the previous replenishment and sends a clear signal of confidence in Africa's development prospects, the African Development Bank Group's leadership, and a new development model centred on investment, risk-sharing, and scale.
“This is not just a replenishment,” said Dr Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group. “It is a turning point. In one of the most difficult global environments for development finance, our partners chose ambition over retrenchment, and investment over inertia.”
Africa steps forward as a co-investor in its own future
For the first time in the Fund's history, 23 African countries have made unprecedented contributions to their own concessional financing window.
A total of $182.7 million was pledged by African countries, with 19 countries contributing for the first time, alongside long-standing regional contributors. This represents a five-fold increase compared to the previous replenishment.
“This is not symbolic,” Dr Ould Tah said. “This is transformational. Africa is no longer only a beneficiary of concessional finance. Africa is a co-investor in its own future.”
From aid to investment: a new financial era for concessional finance
ADF-17 marks a structural shift in how concessional resources will be used. Partners endorsed a new financial model that allows the African Development Fund to:
- Leverage its balance sheet, including through a Market Borrowing Option to be operationalised during this cycle;
- Deploy innovative instruments, including hybrid capital;
- Use concessional finance strategically to absorb risk, crowd in private capital, and catalyse investment at scale.
Each dollar invested through the Fund already unlocks more than $2.50 in co-financing and private capital, a ratio expected to increase further under the new model.
“This allows concessional finance to do what it must do best,” Dr Ould Tah said: “Absorb risk, unlock private investment, and accelerate development at scale.”
New generation of large-scale partnerships
ADF-17 also anchors, for the first time, large-scale concessional co-financing partnerships alongside the Fund.
Development finance partners announced major commitments, including:
- Up to $800 million from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA);
- Up to $2 billion from the OPEC Fund for International Development.
These partnerships signal the launch of a new generation of scaled, risk-sharing collaboration, significantly strengthening the Fund's ability to deliver transformational projects in the most challenging environments.
Delivering impact where it matters most
Resources mobilised under ADF-17 will support 37 low-income and fragile African countries, with a focus on:
- Expanding access to energy;
- Strengthening food systems and food security;
- Investing in human capital;
- Advancing regional integration and trade;
- Building resilient infrastructure.
Targeted support will continue for countries facing fragility and vulnerability, including through the Transition Support Facility.
A global signal of confidence
Co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Ghana, the London pledging session concluded a year-long replenishment process conducted amid exceptional global uncertainty.
Baroness Jenny Chapman, the United Kingdom's Minister of State for International Development and Africa, said: “The UK is proud to co-host the 17th replenishment of the African Development Fund alongside the Republic of Ghana. We have a long-standing partnership with the African Development Bank and support it in driving sustainable and inclusive growth on the continent – for the benefit of the UK and our African partners.”
Thomas Nyarko Amprem, Ghana's Deputy Minister of Finance, said: “The African Development Fund is a strategic instrument of the African Development Bank Group to reduce vulnerability on the continent.”
“The success of ADF-17 confirms strong international confidence in the Fund's strategic direction and in Africa's potential to deliver results at scale,” Dr Ould Tah said. “This replenishment goes beyond aid. It is a strategic investment, with measurable returns in stability, growth, trade, and global resilience.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).Media Contacts:
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Fund:
Established in 1972, the African Development Fund has provided more than $45 billion in grants, concessional loans, and guarantees to Africa's lowest-income countries. It remains a cornerstone of African-led multilateral development finance and a central instrument of the African Development Bank Group's mission to drive inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent.