Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, is celebrating World Diabetes Day 2024 in collaboration with African First Ladies, Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and Academia through their “Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program.” The foundation, led by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, is dedicated to providing scholarships for young doctors in the fields of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Hypertension. These scholarships aim to transform patient care and raise awareness about leading a healthy lifestyle, prevention, early detection, and management of these conditions.
Merck Foundation has awarded 830 scholarships to doctors from 52 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America for one-year Post-Graduate Diplomas and two-year Master Degrees in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Obesity, and Weight Management. These scholarships play a significant role in expanding access to diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular care by training local doctors in specialized areas and enabling them to establish diabetes clinics in their communities.
One such success story is Dr. Mwamba Katema from Zambia, a Merck Foundation Alumnus, who shared his experience of setting up a diabetic clinic after completing the postgraduate diploma in diabetes. The clinic aims to provide accessible services to patients, reduce waiting times, enhance treatment compliance, and decrease the incidence of diabetic complications.
With the World Health Organization reporting a high prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes in Africa, Merck Foundation’s Community Awareness Program focuses on raising awareness and promoting prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension. The foundation has launched various initiatives, including the release of a song titled “No More Sugar,” composed and sung by Dr. Rasha Kelej and Ghanaian Singer Cwezi Oteng, during the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary.
In partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation has also introduced children’s storybooks and animated films such as “Mark’s Pressure” and “Sugar Free Jude” to raise awareness about hypertension, diabetes, and healthy lifestyle practices among children and youth. These initiatives aim to inspire communities to reduce sugar intake, limit salt consumption, stay active, eat healthily, and avoid smoking.
Moreover, Merck Foundation has released songs in multiple languages, such as “NO More Diabetes, Sugar Free” in English, “Dites non au Diabète” in French, and “Chega de Diabete” in Portuguese, to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about diabetes and hypertension.
The foundation’s pan-African TV program, “Our Africa,” hosted by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, features episodes dedicated to raising awareness about Diabetes and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The program is broadcasted on NBC in Namibia and shared on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Additionally, Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African First Ladies, annually launches awards for media, fashion designers, filmmakers, musicians, singers, and emerging talents to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. The awards aim to recognize impactful work that delivers strong messages to support the foundation’s mission.
In conclusion, Merck Foundation’s commitment to improving health outcomes for underserved communities through education, awareness, and empowerment initiatives underscores its dedication to elevating humanity and enhancing well-being. The foundation remains neutral in political matters, focusing solely on its humanitarian mission to make a positive impact on society.
For more information about Merck Foundation and its initiatives, visit their website at www.Merck-Foundation.com and follow them on social media platforms to join the conversation and support their cause.
