I am truly honored to be recognized as One of the 100 Most Influential African Women 2024, for the sixth consecutive year. I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional women like the President of Tanzania, the President-Elect of Namibia, The Prime Minister of DR Congo and many other accomplished African women who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives. Many congratulations to all!
I am proud that in partnership with over 27 African and Asian First Ladies as Ambassadors of the “More Than a Mother” Campaign, we have provided more than 2,100 scholarships to young doctors from 55 countries. Scholarships of one-year, two-year, and three-year Diploma and Master’s Degree in more than 44 critical and underserved specialties have been provided to these doctors, who have become the first specialists in their countries. Moreover, I am very proud that about 50% of these scholarships have been awarded to female medical graduates, marking a great milestone for us.
Moreover, I strongly believe that Education is one of the most critical areas of women empowerment. Therefore, through our “Educating Linda”, together with First Ladies to the future of young African girls who are brilliant but underprivileged, by providing more than 700 scholarships, to cover their school fees till they graduate, and thousands of school items to schoolgirls in many African countries including Botswana, Burundi, Malawi, Ghana, The Gambia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Niger and more.
I have always admired art and fashion in Africa, and I strongly believe that fashion and art should have a purpose beyond entertainment and looking good. We have been raising awareness about many critical social issues including Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending FGM & Child Marriage, Stopping GBV and important health issues like Diabetes & Hypertension prevention, early detection & Management; promoting healthy lifestyle; infertility awareness & management and more. We have introduced many unique and innovative initiatives like Songs, Animation Films, Children Storybooks, Health Media Trainings, “Our Africa” TV Program, Awards for Media, Filmmakers, Fashion Designers and Musicians and more.
I want to thank you all for recognizing my efforts and Merck Foundation’s commitment towards building healthcare capacity, transforming the patient care landscape with a special focus on women’s health, empowering women & girls so that they can reach their potential and pursue their dreams.
I promise to continue to empower women, support girl education, and improve access to quality and equitable healthcare in Africa, Asia and beyond.
The list released by Avance Media celebrates women for their excellence in leadership and performance, personal accomplishments, dedication to sharing knowledge, breaking the status quo, and representing the spirit of a successful African woman.
Kind Regards,
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej,
CEO of Merck Foundation
#MerckFoundation
#EducatingLinda
#MoreThanAMother