Merck Foundation Celebrates World Cancer Day with African First Ladies
Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, is marking ‘World Cancer Day 2025’ in collaboration with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health. Through their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation is committed to enhancing cancer care capacity in Africa and ensuring equitable access to quality cancer care.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized the ongoing commitment to transforming and advancing cancer care in Africa. Together with Africa’s First Ladies, Merck Foundation has provided 194 scholarships to young African doctors from 32 countries, significantly increasing the number of oncologists on the continent. This initiative is making history by training the first oncologists and establishing cancer care teams in countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger.
In total, Merck Foundation has awarded over 2100 scholarships to doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical medical specialties. The Cancer Access Program offers one-, two-, and three-year fellowships, postgraduate diplomas, and master’s degrees in oncology for African doctors. Clinical training is conducted in India, Egypt, and Kenya, while online programs are offered in partnership with reputable universities in the UK.
The program also focuses on establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in various African countries, providing scholarships for training in specialties such as Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, and more.
Among the countries benefiting from Merck Foundation’s oncology scholarships are Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. These scholarships are crucial in addressing the high mortality rate of cancer patients in Africa, often attributed to late diagnosis.
Dr. Chifundo Kajombo, a Merck Foundation alumni from Malawi, shared the impact of the scholarship on his career in surgical oncology. He credits the training received through the program for his professional growth and recognition as the Best Surgeon in Malawi in 2023.
Merck Foundation’s efforts extend beyond scholarships to include awareness materials on cancer prevention and early detection. Through these initiatives, the foundation aims to improve health outcomes and empower healthcare professionals in underserved communities.
For more information on Merck Foundation’s programs and impact, visit their website and social media platforms. Join the conversation and support their mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being through healthcare and scientific advancements.
