« This gathering is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when we unite around a common vision and goal, » said Prof. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp at the official opening of the 7th edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MIFFLI-2025).
« Merck Foundation remains fully committed to our shared vision, » he emphasized in his speech in the presence of Dr. Rasha Kelej (CEO of Merck Foundation and Chair of this initiative).
As a platform for reflection and engagement, this summit brought together around fifteen First Ladies from Africa and beyond on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Dubai (United Arab Emirates), sharing Merck Foundation’s profoundly transformative vision: « Everyone should be able to lead a healthy and happy life. »
« This vision has guided our mission: to develop cutting-edge healthcare capabilities, transform the patient care landscape, break the stigma associated with infertility, empower women, and support girls’ education. This has been the foundation of every successful program launched over the past 13 years, » explained Professor Stangenberg-Haverkamp.
“Merck Fellowships in 44 Critical Specialties”
It should be noted that the Foundation impacts communities in Africa and elsewhere through several development programs, including scholarships, awarded to physicians in 52 countries, in 44 critical and underserved specialties.
« Most of these physicians become leading specialists in their respective fields, in their respective countries. During my visits to different countries, I feel immense pride in seeing how they are transforming healthcare in their communities, » he enthused.
He highlighted that the « Educate Linda » Program is an equally important initiative, which supports the education of high-performing but disadvantaged African schoolgirls until graduation: « Educated girls become empowered women, capable of contributing to the social and economic development of their communities and nations, » said Professor Frank.
“Committed First Ladies”
It should be noted that the First Ladies, also known as Merck Foundation Ambassadors, each testified to the impact of Merck programs in their countries and reaffirmed their commitment to the Foundation for greater impact.
Ms. Lordina Dramani Mahama (First Lady of Ghana) stated that 210 Ghanaian doctors are among the Foundation’s scholarship recipients, and more than 100 young artists, musicians, etc., benefit from Merck’s support. About twenty young girls also benefit.
In Sao Tome and Principe, 40 schoolgirls are supported until they graduate, said Maria de Fatima Vila Nova, the First Lady.
« In Nigeria, 63 scholarships have been awarded in medicine, including eight in embryology. Areas such as diabetes and hypertension are also being considered, » said Senator Olurèmi Tinubu, the First Lady.
Dr. Auxillia Mnangagua (the First Lady of Zimbabwe) emphasized that Merck’s interventions have greatly helped her country in the areas of health, media, and girls’ education.
« It is through the quality of our commitment and our doctors that we will be able to build a strong healthcare system capable of sustainably meeting the needs of our fellow citizens in areas such as diabetes care and reproductive medicine. With this in mind, we welcome the awarding of 25 scholarships to strengthen the skills of young Senegalese doctors, including five in fertility and embryology, eight in oncology, and eight in diabetes, » said Ms. Marie Khone Faye (First Lady of Senegal).
Note that recipients of these scholarships also gave their testimony.
« We will continue to work with the First Ladies and our partners to address the healthcare gaps and social challenges facing many countries around the world. Together, we will lead the world towards a better and healthier future, » said Prof. Frank Dtangenberg-Haverkamp (Chairman of the Board of Directors of Merck Foundation ).
It should be remembered that the last day of this high-level meeting will be mainly devoted to community awareness and training of journalists on health issues./
From Dubai, Ambroisine MEMEDE
