I extend heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya, and the Joyful Women Organization (JOYWO) on marking 16 impactful years of inspiring women economic empowerment across Kenya. This remarkable milestone, sixteen years of empowering women, strengthening communities, and driving real change is truly an achievement to be celebrated.
Through their table-banking model and community-led initiatives, Joyful Women has opened pathways for women to start businesses, support their families, and uplift their communities. Mama Rachel’s visionary leadership continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Kenya. We celebrate Mama Rachel’s visionary leadership and partnership in building a more inclusive, prosperous Kenya.
Merck Foundation is closely working with The First Lady of Kenya, and as a part of our joint efforts to strengthen healthcare capacity in Kenya, we have provided 295 scholarships for Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties, helping to transform the patient care landscape across the country.
Moreover, in partnership with the Kenya First Lady, we will provide almost 100 scholarships of one-year postgraduate diploma of critical nutrition for Kenyan doctors across the 47 counties of Kenya over the next four years as part of her Feed One, End Hunger Program.
Additionally, through our “Educating Linda” program, we are also providing annual scholarships to 47 deserving yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, helping them continue their education and enabling them to reach their full potential.
Congratulations once again on 16 years of impact, here’s to many more! #JoyfulAt16
Warm regards,
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.)
CEO, Merck Foundation
