Merck Foundation has expressed its commitment to continue supporting projects aimed at improving access to healthcare and empowering women and girls being implemented in Africa including Malawi.
Speaking during the seventh edition of the Merck Foundation Africa-Asia First Lady summit in United Arab Emirates, the organisation’s chief executive office Rasha Kelej said the goal is to ensure equitable and quality healthcare for citizens in their respective countries.
She said so far, Merck Foundation has trained about 2 270 doctors in 44 critical and underserved medical specialities from 52 countries in Africa including Malawi and Asia.
Said Kelej: “Some were trained and now specialists in oncology, fertility, diabetes, hypertension, sexual and reproductive medicine, internal medicine and respiratory medicine among others.
“So every doctor we train, returns to their community and see more patients each month. This is real transformation.”
One of Merck Foundation programmes’ beneficiaries Prince Mkandawire hailed the organisation for its contribution towards access to healthcare.
First Lady Monica Chakwera, who is also Merck Foundation’s More Than a Mother campaign ambassador is on record having said her collaboration with the foundation has enhanced healthcare capacity in Malawi.
She said besides enhancing healthcare capacity through providing scholarships to Malawian doctors to specialise in various fields, the foundation also supports the girl child education through Educating Linda initiative.
Said Chakwera: “As the proud ambassador of the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign, I remain steadfast in my commitment to empowering infertile and childless women by promoting access to education, information, and a much-needed shift in societal mindsets.
“This campaign is crucial in breaking the stigma surrounding infertility and enabling women to live fulfilling lives, regardless of their ability to bear children.”
