The Merck Foundation the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, has marked International Women’s Day 2026 by renewing its commitment to empowering women and girls across Africa, Asia, and other regions.
In a statement shared with the Ghana News Agency, Chief Executive Officer Dr Rasha Kelej highlighted that women’s empowerment is central to the Foundation’s mission and is embedded across all its programmes, rather than being observed on a single day.
“For more than 14 years, our initiatives have aimed to improve women’s health, education, and leadership opportunities. Together with First Ladies of Africa and Asia, who serve as ambassadors of the Foundation, we continue to drive change through sustained action,” she said.
Dr Kelej cited key programmes, including “More Than a Mother,” the Merck Foundation Scholarships Programme, “Educating Linda,” and the STEM Programme, as examples of the Foundation’s ongoing work to transform the lives of women and girls.
The “More Than a Mother” initiative targets women facing infertility, providing access to education, healthcare services, and awareness campaigns to challenge societal stigma. The Scholarships Programme has supported more than 2,500 healthcare providers across 52 countries, with nearly 1,200 awards going to women medical graduates, enabling them to become healthcare specialists and leaders.
Under the “Educating Linda” initiative, over 1,200 annual scholarships have been provided to underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, helping them complete their education. The STEM Programme and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards focus on promoting women’s participation in science, technology, and research, recognising outstanding female researchers and young African innovators.
Beyond education and health, the Foundation also engages in advocacy to combat gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, child marriage, and infertility stigma through media, storytelling, animation films, songs, fashion awards, and its “Our Africa” television programme.
Dr Kelej encouraged women and girls worldwide to rise with confidence, overcome barriers, and realise their full potential, reiterating that empowering women is vital to social progress and sustainable development.
Through its long-standing initiatives, the Merck Foundation continues to foster education, leadership, and healthcare capacity for women, positioning them as catalysts for change in their communities and beyond.
