Breaking Boundaries in Healthcare: Merck Foundation's 11th Africa Asia Luminary Summit

By Hamu Madzedze

Online Health Editor-Zimbabwe

The Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2024, 11th Edition, was a dynamic platform for collaboration.

It brought together Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, and First Ladies from Africa and Asia.

This annual event spotlighted urgent global healthcare priorities.

These included eliminating infertility stigma, enhancing access to specialized care in oncology and diabetes, and bolstering media capacity to raise health awareness.

Dr. Kelej and the First Ladies emphasized the importance of education and advocacy. They urged decisive action by 2025 to establish sustainable healthcare systems.

Notable discussions focused on innovative programs to empower medical professionals.

These included scholarships and training to foster cultural shifts and address societal taboos surrounding infertility.

She stressed that equitable access to healthcare and education is pivotal for achieving transformative societal change.

The event showcased the foundation's impactful initiatives.

These included partnerships to improve healthcare infrastructure and strategic collaborations with media to amplify public health campaigns.

Dr. Kelej highlighted the significance of Merck Foundation's partnership with the First Ladies.

She highlighted that this partnership has been crucial in transforming the patient care landscape.

It's leading Africa and Asia towards a better, healthier, and stronger future."said Dr Kelej.

The First Ladies shared their experiences and successes.

Zimbabwean First Lady H.E. Amai Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa stated, that the partnership with Merck Foundation has resulted in the provision 122 scholarships to young Zimbabwean doctors.

"We've also supported girls' education through the 'Educating Linda' program."said Her Excellency Dr Mnangagwa.

Mozambique First Lady H.E. Isaura Ferrao Nyusi expressed gratitude for the support her country received.

"Through our partnership, we're strengthening healthcare capacity and we have provided 16 scholarships to our medical graduates, including 14 for the Diabetes Master course."pointed out Her Excellence Nyusi

This gathering reinforced the collective responsibility of governments, organizations, and communities. They must work together toward an inclusive and healthier future. Through collaboration, the Merck Foundation and its partners continue to inspire impactful actions to improve lives globally.