Category: MIL-OSI

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African Development Bank Group Board Approves New Strategy to Drive Economic Diversification and Private Sector-led Inclusive Growth in Lesotho

Source: APO

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a new $209 million Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Lesotho, setting out a roadmap to accelerate the country’s transition toward economic diversification, resilience, and inclusive growth over the next five years.

The approval comes at a crucial moment for the landlocked country, which continues to face major development challenges, including the impact of a recent 15 percent U.S. tariff on apparel exports, the loss of Official Development Assistance following the cancellation of the $300 million Millennium Challenge Corporation compact, and its reliance on regional economic performance. Nearly half of Lesotho’s population lives in poverty, and youth unemployment remains close to 39 percent.  The new strategy aims to address these vulnerabilities by unlocking private sector growth, creating sustainable employment, and building stronger institutions.

“Lesotho stands at a critical juncture,” said Moono Mupotola, the Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for Southern Africa and Country Manager for Lesotho. “This comprehensive strategy leverages the country’s abundant water resources, strategic location, and demographic dividend to unlock new pathways for inclusive growth and economic diversification.”

The strategy centers on two main priorities: building sustainable infrastructure to drive industrialization and strengthening institutional and human capacities to enhance competitiveness. Key targets include achieving universal electricity access by 2030 through the Mission 300 program, reducing broadband costs to foster a thriving tech start-up ecosystem, and expanding safe drinking water access to thousands more households.

The Bank will also support water and agricultural infrastructure to boost productivity, while also helping the government modernize tax collection systems and strengthen public sector management capacity with new training programs for civil servants.

Catalyzing Private Sector Growth

The Bank will back policy reforms and infrastructure investments that reduce the cost of doing business, expand funding for digital innovation and promote entrepreneurship. Support will be directed to startups and small businesses, including women- and youth-led enterprises, while skills development programs are expected to equip 20,000 young people– 40 percent of them women– with the digital skills required for the modern economy.

With Lesotho highly vulnerable to climate shocks, the Strategy incorporates measures to scale up climate-smart agriculture, strengthen disaster risk management, and expand investments in renewable energy and water infrastructure. These initiatives are designed not only to safeguard livelihoods but also to tackle pressing social issues, such as reducing child stunting, which affects more than a third of children under five.

 Regional Integration Focus

The Bank will help position Lesotho to benefit from integration with larger markets by supporting cross-border infrastructure links to South Africa, trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),  and participation in the regional value chain, particularly in agro-processing. By improving connectivity and reducing economic isolation, the strategy seeks to expand opportunities for Lesotho’s businesses and workers beyond its borders.

The new Country Strategy Paper builds on the lessons of past Bank operations in Lesotho and emphasizes integrated, multisectoral approaches, stronger implementation capacity, and proactive portfolio management. It aligns with Lesotho’s National Strategic Development Plan II (2018-2028), the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), the African Union’s Agenda 2063 (https://apo-opa.co/46za6PF), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To deliver results, the Bank will draw on multiple financing windows, including its concessional African Development Fund, the Regional Operations Window, and the Climate Action Window, while working in close partnership with other development institutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact: 
Emeka Anuforo
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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30 years after Beijing: Slow but steady gender equality gains in East and Southern Africa

Source: APO


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Policymakers and gender and statistics experts in East and Southern Africa have spotlighted the need to harmonize legal systems based on equality guarantees provided in the constitutions of countries in the sub-region, and the full implementation of all gender-related initiatives for the achievement of gender equality.

The experts convened in a policy discussion following submissions from 23 countries that have been published in a new report titled “Gender Equality Response Systems in East and Southern Africa: 30 years after the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.”

The policy discussion was aimed at unpacking the submissions, which detail countries’ progress and commitments towards gender equality, and reviewing trends and the policy actions to achieve equality in the context of the 30th anniversary of The Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing−The Beijing Conference−a pivotal moment in the global history of women’s rights.

Since last year, in readiness for the 30th commemoration of the Beijing Conference, countries in the sub-region have submitted a total of 41 cross-cutting commitments towards gender equality. Some of the most prominent commitments include increasing opportunities for youth and adolescent girls, strong emphasis on law and policy reform, increased financing for gender equality, and improving the collection of gender data.

“The key is to make commitments that are visible, measurable, and responsive to the needs of all women and girls” said Ms. Anna Mutavati, Regional Director, UN Women for East and Southern Africa.

“Countries can move their Beijing+30 commitments forward by combining strong laws, adequate funding, institutional capacity, robust data, inclusive partnerships, youth focus, and accountability,” Ms. said Mutavati.

Considered the most progressive blueprint ever for advancing women’s rights, and the first global policy to include a specific focus on girls’ rights and address violence against girls, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA) ushered in an era of law- and policymaking and programming on 12 critical areas of concern identified in the BPfA. These ranged from women and poverty, women and health, and violence against women (VAW) to women and the economy, women in power and decision-making, and women and the environment.

For example, in East and southern Africa, 20 countries have since developed and adopted legislation, policy, strategy and/or action plans against gender-based violence (GBV) and 10 have amended their penal codes and child protection laws or adopted a sexual offences law to criminalize GBV acts. To support girls’ education, 14 countries have adopted policies ensuring their continuation or re-entry to school after pregnancy and childbirth while 14 countries have developed, or are in the process of developing, national women, peace, and security action plans to help ensure that women are well represented in peacebuilding.

Since 1995, East and southern African countries have made commendable progress towards gender equality: the gender divide in primary education is minimal and girls’ enrollment rates in secondary and tertiary education has visibly increased; women’s representation in politics has been on the rise since the early 2000s with southern Africa displaying the highest proportion of women in single/lower houses on the continent (nearly one-third or 32%) and Rwanda with the highest proportion of women in parliament globally with 61% representation. Maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly; from 1990 to 2015, Sub-Saharan Africa had nearly halved the rate (a reduction of 45%).

Financial access for women has been on the rise with far more women independently opening bank accounts and accessing credit in most African countries. One in three ESA countries has adopted financial inclusion strategies. Another win is that child marriage is now illegal with a vast majority of ESA countries having legislated the minimum age for marriage as 18 or above and integrating action plans to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM).

However, women here still grapple with poverty, violence, overrepresentation in informal work and underrepresentation in peacebuilding and climate governance, hindering progress towards gender equality.

“This link between poverty and gender inequality drives a vicious circle,” said Ms. Keiso Matashane-Marite, Chief, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Section (GEWES), at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

“If unchecked, it further impoverishes women’s families and communities and widens the gap in standards of living between women and men, added Ms. Matashane-Marite.

Even with the gains in public leadership, East and southern African women in decision-making continue to face expressions of stereotypes, discriminatory attitudes, and patriarchal structures, including in political parties. This impedes their meaningful and even safe participation. Lack of compliance with or poor implementation of legislated and even constitutional quotas, political violence against women, and non-inclusive electoral systems also lead to women being under-represented in public leadership.

“Although gender data is a powerful catalyst for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, inadequate resources and, in some cases, insufficient coordination among actors, leads to gaps,” said Ms. Isabella Schmidt, Regional Gender Statistics Advisor, UN Women for East and Southern Africa.

“This, limits evidence-based policymaking and planning, including gender-responsive budgeting,” emphasized Ms. Schmidt.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

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Qatar Participates in UN Security Council Emergency Meeting on Situation in Middle East, Including Palestinian Question

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 24, 2025

The State of Qatar participated in the emergency ministerial meeting of the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.
In Qatar’s statement to the meeting, Her Excellency affirmed Qatar’s adherence to the Islamic Group’s statement.
Her Excellency said that experience has confirmed that mediation and diplomacy are the only way to resolve disputes, noting that the joint efforts made by the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the United States to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip were widely appreciated and the Security Council recognized their importance in its Resolution 2735 (2024).
However, these efforts suffered a treacherous blow when an Israeli airstrike targeted a residential area in Doha on Sep. 9, resulting in civilian casualties, including the martyr Bader Al Dosari, 22, and the injury of 18 others, Her Excellency added.
Her Excellency stressed that the Israeli attack on a mediating state is not only a flagrant violation of its sovereignty, international humanitarian law, and the UN Charter, but also a direct assault on the principle of mediation itself and an undermining of dialogue as an option for resolving conflicts.
Her Excellency said that protecting mediators and negotiators is not just a political issue, but rather a fundamental pillar of maintaining international peace and security.
Her Excellency noted that international solidarity with the State of Qatar was evident, both through the Security Council statement issued on Sep. 11 and at the Arab-Islamic summit held in Doha, all of which emphasized that this Israeli attack poses a serious threat to regional security and undermines prospects for peace and calm efforts.
HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation noted that this month, particularly during the High-Level Week, witnessed the crystallization of an unprecedented international consensus in support of a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and the two-state solution based on international law and international legitimacy resolutions.
Her Excellency indicated that this consensus was evident in the statements made by heads of state and government before the General Assembly’s general debate, and at the ministerial conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, with the participation of the State of Qatar at the highest level. Several countries announced their recognition of the State of Palestine, completing the international drive to resolve the longest-standing issues at the United Nations.
Her Excellency added that this consensus is embodied in numerous General Assembly resolutions, the most recent of which was the resolution on the participation of the State of Palestine, hading hoped that the Security Council would join this consensus by adopting the draft resolution submitted by the elected states. This council, by virtue of its basic mandate, bears full responsibility for taking the necessary measures to halt the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, prevent genocide and forced displacement, and adopt a binding resolution under Chapter VII to ensure Israel’s compliance with its resolutions and impose an immediate ceasefire.
Her Excellency stressed that Israel’s violations of international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territories continue systematically. These include targeting civilians, using starvation as a weapon, destroying infrastructure and hospitals, forced displacement, threats of illegal annexation of the West Bank, settlement expansion, and repeated attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites. These violations constitute clear violations of international law and pose a direct threat to the two-state solution.
Her Excellency emphasized that repeated Israeli attacks on the territories of neighboring countries, in Syria and Lebanon, undermine stability and increase the likelihood of a wider conflict, making their threat to international peace and security an urgent responsibility for this council.
Her Excellency added that a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East will not be achieved by ignoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people or by imposing a fait accompli by force, but rather by adhering to the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international legitimacy resolutions.
From this platform, we call on the international community, especially the Security Council, to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and adopt practical steps to establish a binding timetable for ending the Israeli occupation and ensuring full recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, Her Excellency added.
Her Excellency urged the United Nations to activate all its mechanisms to achieve an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, ensure unconditional access for humanitarian aid, lift the siege, protect mediators and mediation efforts as an essential tool for resolving conflicts, and work to achieve a final political settlement based on the two-state solution, ensuring international security and stability.

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Lesotho : le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement approuve une nouvelle stratégie de diversification économique et de croissance inclusive tirée par le secteur privé

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Conseil d’administration du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) a approuvé un nouveau Document de stratégie pays (DSP) de 209 millions de dollars pour le Lesotho. Ce DSP établit une feuille de route pour accélérer la transition du pays vers la diversification économique, la résilience et la croissance inclusive au cours des cinq prochaines années.

Cette approbation intervient à un moment crucial pour le Lesotho, un pays enclavé qui fait face à des défis majeurs en matière de développement. Ces défis sont liés notamment à l’impact des récents droits de douane américains de 15 % sur les exportations de vêtements, à la perte de l’aide publique au développement après l’annulation du contrat de 300 millions de dollars de la Millennium Challenge Corporation, ainsi qu’à sa dépendance à l’égard des performances économiques régionales. Près de la moitié de la population du Lesotho vit dans la pauvreté et le taux de chômage des jeunes reste proche de 39 %. La nouvelle stratégie vise à remédier à ces vulnérabilités en débloquant la croissance du secteur privé, en créant des emplois durables et en renforçant les institutions.

« Le Lesotho se trouve à la croisée des chemins », a déclaré Moono Mupotola, directrice générale adjointe pour l’Afrique australe et cheffe du bureau pays du Groupe de la Banque pour le Lesotho. « Cette stratégie globale tire parti des abondantes ressources en eau du pays, de sa situation stratégique et de son dividende démographique pour ouvrir de nouvelles voies vers une croissance inclusive et une diversification économique. »

La stratégie s’articule autour de deux grandes priorités : la construction d’infrastructures durables pour stimuler l’industrialisation et le renforcement des capacités institutionnelles et humaines afin d’améliorer la compétitivité. Les principaux objectifs sont notamment d’atteindre l’accès universel à l’électricité d’ici à 2030 grâce au programme de la Mission 300, de réduire les coûts de l’Internet à haut débit pour favoriser un écosystème florissant de start-up technologiques, et d’étendre l’accès à l’eau potable à des milliers de ménages supplémentaires.

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement soutiendra également les infrastructures hydrauliques et agricoles pour stimuler la productivité, tout en aidant le gouvernement à moderniser les systèmes de collecte des impôts et à renforcer les capacités de gestion du secteur public grâce à de nouveaux programmes de formation pour les fonctionnaires.

Catalyser la croissance du secteur privé

Le Groupe de la Banque appuiera les réformes politiques et les investissements dans les infrastructures qui réduisent le coût des affaires, augmentent le financement de l’innovation numérique et promeuvent l’entrepreneuriat. Les programmes de développement des compétences devraient permettre à 20 000 jeunes, dont 40 % de femmes, d’acquérir des compétences numériques nécessaires à une économie moderne.

Le Lesotho étant très vulnérable aux chocs climatiques, la stratégie intègre des mesures visant à développer une agriculture climato-intelligente, à renforcer la gestion des risques de catastrophe et à accroître les investissements dans les énergies renouvelables et les infrastructures hydrauliques. Ces initiatives sont conçues non seulement pour préserver les moyens de subsistance, mais aussi pour s’attaquer à des problèmes sociaux urgents, tels que la réduction du retard de croissance chez les enfants, qui touche plus d’un tiers des enfants de moins de cinq ans.

Attention portée à l’intégration régionale

La Banque aidera le Lesotho à tirer parti de l’intégration avec des marchés plus vastes en soutenant les infrastructures transfrontalières vers l’Afrique du Sud, la facilitation des échanges dans le cadre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) et la participation à la chaîne de valeur régionale, en particulier dans l’agroalimentaire. En améliorant la connectivité et en réduisant l’isolement économique, la stratégie vise à élargir les opportunités pour les entreprises et les travailleurs du Lesotho au-delà des frontières.

Le nouveau DSP s’appuie sur les enseignements tirés des opérations antérieures du Groupe de la Banque au Lesotho et met l’accent sur des approches intégrées et multisectorielles, un renforcement des capacités de mise en œuvre et une gestion proactive du portefeuille. Il s’aligne sur le Plan national de développement stratégique II du Lesotho (2018-2028), la Stratégie décennale du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (2024-2033) (https://apo-opa.co/46CoSVM), l’Agenda 2063 de l’Union africaine (https://apo-opa.co/46za6PF) et les Objectifs de développement durable (ODD) des Nations unies.

Afin de produire des résultats, le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement s’appuiera sur de multiples guichets de financement, notamment son guichet concessionnel, le Fonds africain de développement, ainsi que le Guichet des opérations régionales et le Guichet d’action climatique, tout en travaillant en étroite collaboration avec d’autres institutions de développement.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Emeka Anuforo
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement 
media@afdb.org

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution du financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org

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CEO de la Fondation Merck rencontre La Première Dame du Sénégal et 13 Premières Dames d’Afrique et d’Asie lors de la 7ème Édition du Sommet de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck pour discuter de la stratégie de renforcement des capacités de santé au Sénégal

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, a récemment organisé la 7ème Édition du Sommet MFFLI 2025 de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck. Elle a été inaugurée par le Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman du Conseil d’Administration de la Fondation Merck, et la Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck et Présidente de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck, et S.E. Madame MARIE KHONE FAYE, La Première Dame de la République du Sénégal et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » aux côtés des Premières Dames d’Angola, Cap-Vert, République Centrafricaine, Gabon, Gambie, Ghana, Kenya, Libéria, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigéria, São Tomé et Principe, et Zimbabwe.

Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej, a déclaré : « C’est un grand plaisir d’accueillir S.E. Madame MARIE KHONE FAYE, La Première Dame de la République du Sénégal, et de la nommer comme Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère ». Nous sommes ravis de commencer ce voyage impactant ensemble, à travers nos programmes.

Je suis heureuse de partager que nous avons jusqu’à présent fourni 25 bourses pour les médecins sénégalais dans de nombreuses spécialités telles que l’Oncologie, Diabète, Fertilité et Embryologie. Nous allons bientôt inscrire plus de médecins pour diverses autres spécialités critiques et mal desservies ».

S.E. Madame MARIE KHONE FAYE, La Première Dame de la République du Sénégal et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » a partagé : « C’est un véritable honneur d’être nommé Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » et de rejoindre la 7ème Édition du Sommet de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck, aux côtés de mes sœur les Excellences Premières Dames d’Afrique et d’Asie par le biais des Programmes de la Fondation Merck.

De plus, je suis ravie de lancer le programme « Éduquer Linda », qui soutient l’éducation des filles. Je crois fermement à l’autonomisation des filles par l’éducation, car elle joue un rôle crucial dans la construction de nations plus fortes et plus saines. »

Regardez le discours de la Première Dame du Sénégal et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » lors du Sommet de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck 2025 ici : https://youtu.be/xQ9fTgcAdOE

Regardez la vidéo de la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej, recevant S.E. Madame MARIE KHONE FAYE, la Première Dame du Sénégal et Ambassadrice de la Fondation Merck « Plus Qu’une Mère » : https://apo-opa.co/3VzYkzz

Le deuxième jour du Sommet, une réunion du comité de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck – MFFLI a eu lieu entre les Premières Dames d’Afrique et le Chairman et la CEO de la Fondation Merck. Au cours de cette réunion, les Premières Dames d’Afrique et d’Asie ont partagé le rapport d’impact des programmes de la Fondation Merck dans leurs pays respectifs et ont discuté de la stratégie future.

Regardez la vidéo de la réunion du comité MFFLI : https://apo-opa.co/3VScool

Pendant le Sommet, une réunion entre la Première Dame du Sénégal et la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej a également été tenue pour discuter de l’impact des programmes en cours et définir des stratégies pour renforcer les soins de santé et les capacités médiatiques au Sénégal pour améliorer les soins aux patients et sensibiliser à un large éventail de questions sociales et sanitaires dans le pays.

Regardez la vidéo de la réunion entre la CEO de la Fondation Merck, Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej et la Première Dame du Sénégal : https://apo-opa.co/42NxLL4

Avec la Première Dame du Sénégal, la Fondation Merck a fourni 25 bourses pour les médecins locaux au Sénégal dans de nombreuses spécialités critiques et mal desservies. Sur 25 bourses :

  • 8 bourses ont été offertes dans le domaine vital de l’Oncologie, afin que les patients puissent recevoir des soins du cancer de qualité et équitables dans leur pays.
  • 7 bourses ont été offertes à nos médecins pour une formation pratique en Fertilité et en Embryologie, ainsi que pour les Diplômes Post-Universitaire d’un an et de deux ans en Soins Sexuels et Reproductifs. Cela contribuera considérablement sur l’avancement de la santé des femmes et révolutionnera les soins de reproduction et de fertilité au Sénégal.
  • 10 bourses ont été accordées pour le Cours de Master du Diabète. Une fois terminé, ces médecins seront non seulement équipés pour prendre en charge efficacement les patients diabétiques, mais joueront également un rôle clé dans la sensibilisation sur cette maladie et la promotion de l’importance d’un mode de vie sain dans nos communautés.

La Fondation Merck a accordé au total 2 280 bourses à des médecins de 52 pays dans 44 spécialités critiques et mal desservies.

La Fondation Merck a également lancé un Appel à Candidatures pour ses 8 prix importants, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Sénégal, destinés aux médias, aux musiciens, aux créateurs de mode, aux cinéastes, aux étudiants et aux nouveaux talents potentiels dans ces domaines.

De plus, en partenariat avec la Première Dame du Sénégal, la Fondation Merck a également lancé sept livres d’histoires pour enfants : « Plus Qu’une Mère », « Éduquer Linda », « Le Secours de Jackline », « Pas Qui Vous êtes », « Une Balade vers le Futur », « Jude Sans Sucre » et « La Tension de Mark ». Ces livres abordent diverses questions sociales et sanitaires, telles que la lutte contre la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, la lutte contre la violence sexiste, la sensibilisation sur le diabète et l’hypertension. Les livres de contes seront mis à disposition en langue française.

La 7ème édition de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck a été diffusée en direct sur les réseaux sociaux de Merck Foundation et Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck :

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), et YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/42GRagJ), X (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFDdO), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4nMaCkb), et YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFGq0).

Lien vers la retransmission en direct sur Facebook de la Session Inaugurale du Panel de Haut Niveau de l’Initiative des Premières Dames de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/4nKBW2l

La Fondation Merck transforme le paysage des soins aux patients et écrit l’histoire avec ses partenaires en Afrique, en Asie et au-delà, à travers :

  • Plus de 2280 Bourses offertes par la Fondation Merck pour les médecins de 52 pays dans 44 spécialités médicales critiques et mal desservies.  

La Fondation Merck crée également un changement de culture et brise le silence sur un large éventail de problèmes sociaux et sanitaires en Afrique et dans les communautés mal desservies grâce à :

  • Plus de 3700 Journalistes de plus de 35 pays formés pour mieux sensibiliser sur les différents problèmes sociaux et sanitaires.
  • 8 Prix Différents lancés chaque année pour la meilleure couverture médiatique, les créateurs de mode, les films et les chansons.
  • Environ 30 chansons pour aborder les problèmes sanitaires et sociaux par des chanteurs locaux à travers l’Afrique.
  • 8 livres de contes pour enfants en trois langues – anglais, français et portugais.
  • 7 Films d’Animation de Sensibilisation en cinq langues : Anglais, Français, Portugais, Espagnol et Swahili pour sensibiliser sur la prévention et le dépistage précoce du diabète et de l’hypertension et soutenir l’éducation des filles.
  • Programme Télévisé Panafricain « Notre Afrique par la Fondation Merck » abordant les problèmes sociaux et sanitaires en Afrique à travers la communauté « Mode et L’Art avec un But ».
  • Plus de 950 bourses accordées à des écolières africaines brillantes mais défavorisées pour leur permettre de terminer leurs études.
  • 15 chaînes de réseaux sociaux avec plus de 8 millions de d’abonnés.

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Rejoignez la conversation sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux ci-dessous et faites entendre votre voix :
Facebook : http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU
X:  http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK
YouTube : http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk
Instagram : http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX
Threads : http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9
Flickr : http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/4nIvDMH

À propos de la Fondation Merck :
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9) et Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) meets Senegal First Lady & 13 First Ladies of Africa at 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss the strategy to build healthcare capacity in Senegal

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Zimbabwe.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It is a great pleasure to welcome H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and to appoint her as the Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign. We are delighted to begin this impactful journey together, through our programs.

I am happy to share that we have so far provided 25 scholarships for Senegalese doctors in many specialties such as Oncology, Diabetes, Fertility, and Embryology. We will soon be enrolling more doctors for various other critical and underserved specialties”.

H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign shared, “It is a true honour to be appointed as the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” and join the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit, alongside my fellow African and Asian First Ladies. I am greatly inspired by the achievements of my dear sisters through Merck Foundation programs. I am also happy to share that in my country, till date 25 scholarships have been provided for our young doctors across key specialties and especially, Diabetes Mastercourse which has been offered in French language, making it more accessible for our local medical doctors.

In addition, I am excited to launch the ‘Educating Linda’ program, which supports girl education. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Senegal & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://youtu.be/xQ9fTgcAdOE

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/3VzYkzz

On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/3VScool

During the Luminary, a meeting between The First Lady of Senegal and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej was also held to discuss the impact of on-going programs and define strategies to further build healthcare and media capacity in Senegal to improve patient care and raise awareness about wide range of social and health issues in the country.

Watch video of the meeting between Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej and Senegal First Lady: https://apo-opa.co/42NxLL4

Together with Senegal First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 25 scholarships for local doctors in Senegal in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of 25 scholarships:

  • 8 Scholarships have been provided in the vital field of oncology, so that the patients can receive quality and equitable cancer care in their home country. 
  • 7 Scholarships have been provided for our doctors for hands-on training in Fertility and Embryology, as well as for One-Year Postgraduate and Two-Year Master’s Degrees in Sexual and Reproductive Care. This will significantly contribute to advancement of women’s health and revolutionize the Reproductive and Fertility care in Senegal.  
  • 10 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes Master Course. Upon completion, these doctors will not only be equipped to effectively treat patients with diabetes but will also play a key role in raising awareness about the condition and promoting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in our communities.

Overall, Merck Foundation has provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal, Merck Foundation is launching their children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks will be made available in French Language.

The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/42GRagJ), X (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFDdO), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4nMaCkb), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFGq0).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4nKBW2l

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

  • 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

  • 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
  • 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese
  • 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.
  • Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
  • 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies
  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU
X: http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4nIvDMH

About Merck Foundation:
​The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9) and Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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South Sudan: Unity in diversity marks inclusive Peace Day event in Kuajok

Source: APO

Most everyone was on board when multiethnic residents of Warrap State, at least for a few hours, forgot about their divisions and got together to talk about, and celebrate, peace, and how it begins with all of us moving forward together.

“We have been clashing, and we have lost lives, but today we stand together. If peace begins with me, then I must also let go of the past, because our children deserve a future free from fear,” said Ayen Chol from conflict-plagued Tonj East.

Having lost a brother to intercommunal fighting, she shares the pain of thousands of Warrap residents affected by local conflicts.

“For us to have peace, justice, food security and access to schools and healthcare, every citizen must choose non-violence, volunteer in their communities and mentoring the next generation,” remarked Madit Mawien Adhiik, the state’s Minister of Peacebuilding.

As pulsating drumbeats rolled in over Kuajok’s Freedom Square and a large crowd enjoyed and multicultural performances of songs and dances into a street party, it all made sense, but also served as food for thought.

“For the peace we want to last, half of the population cannot be left out of decision-making. Women must have a voice in the justice system, in the cattle camps, in the councils of our leaders. For too long, we haven’t had that,” commented Akuot Majok, a friend of Ms. Chol.

Others, like young reporter John Mayar, remembered an oft-neglected group of vulnerable citizens.

“Think about our street children, who rarely get a chance to go to school. They sell tea at the market; they carry babies on their backs and survive on their own. They must also be heard when we talk about our future.”

On stage, artists advocated for inclusivity and mutual respect in their own ways, with Gogrial West singers swapping verses with youth performers from Twic, and groups from Acholi and neighbouring Lakes State singing together about forgiveness and resilience.

“Many of you may be celebrating today because guns in Warrap have been silent for more than a month, but silence alone is not enough. Reconciliation and justice are also necessary for peace,” noted Anastasie Nyirigira Mukangarambe, Head of the peacekeeping mission’s Field Office in Kuajok.

Perseverance and practical action, she may have added to that list of requirements. At least that is what young John Akok, lingering in the vicinity of the emptying party venue, hinted at.

“We celebrate this occasion every year, but if the peace we are talking about stays on that stage instead of being brought home and to any place where it’s needed, then we haven’t really learnt anything.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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Dr Katrina Esau honoured for her role in preserving indigenous language

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting President Paul Mashatile has honoured Dr Katrina Esau, the last fluent speaker of the critically endangered indigenous N’uu language and one of South Africa’s revered living human treasures.

N’uu is the language of the San people, who were the first hunter-gatherers in southern Africa.

Speaking during the official Heritage Day celebrations event in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, he highlighted the importance of preserving cultural identity while creating opportunities for youth and addressing societal challenges.

READ | Acting President advocates for the transformation of heritage institutions 

The Acting President emphasised Esau’s importance as she sat in the front row of the marquee, stating that “when a language dies, a universe of meaning, memory, and identity is lost forever.”

He described Esau as one of the country’s living human treasures who are vital to the transmission of heritage, serving as custodians of knowledge, skills, and cultural practices. 

“They guide communities, enrich cultural experiences, and educate society on the enduring value of arts and culture,” he said on Wednesday. 

He believes that Esau stands as a towering figure, embodying resilience, wisdom, and the unbroken thread of indigenous knowledge. 

“Through the wealth of her experience and teachings, we as a nation continue to draw inspiration and strength. Her life’s work reminds us of the urgent responsibility to safeguard our intangible cultural heritage for future generations.”

The Acting President expressed gratitude to Esau for sharing knowledge with young people. 
He announced that the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, will support her school, which is located at her home in Rosedale, outside Upington in the Northern Cape.

“With every lesson she imparts to present and future generations, she does far more than transmit words; she safeguards a profound archive of human experience and linguistic heritage.

“Her voice reminds us that when a language dies, a universe of meaning, memory, and identity is lost forever. It is for this reason that the restoration and preservation of our indigenous languages must remain central to our pursuit of restoring the dignity of those whose voices were silenced and whose languages were suppressed.” 

He also took the time to pay tribute to the central role played by traditional and Khoisan leaders, Kings and Queens, in the defence of “our beautiful land and the safeguarding of our heritage.”

“Throughout history, they have stood as custodians of culture, identity, and memory, ensuring that the wisdom of our ancestors is preserved and passed on to future generations.” 

The Acting President stated that their leadership has not only protected the country’s territories but also promoted the values of unity, dignity, and resilience among its citizens.

“Today, as we chart the path towards a more cohesive and inclusive society, we draw inspiration from their enduring legacy and acknowledge their invaluable contribution to the preservation of our heritage as a whole.

“Some of our Traditional and Khoisan leaders, who fought fearlessly in these wars, were beheaded, their skeletal remains collected as trophies and shipped out of the country to museums across Euro-Western countries.” 

He announced that government is actively working to restore dignity through several initiatives, including a national policy for the repatriation of human remains, reburial of Khoisan ancestral remains and identifying international institutions holding sacred human remains. – SAnews.gov.za

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Graduated, now what? Survey of young Africans shows degrees don’t always land them a job

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Andrea Juan, Chief Research Specialist, Human Sciences Research Council

Study hard, get your degree, and then step confidently into a stable, well-paid job. That’s long been the assumption about how to secure a livelihood: in neat, predictable stages. But it is increasingly out of touch with reality. Secure jobs are no longer guaranteed after obtaining a tertiary qualification.

Up-to-date and reliable data on graduate unemployment in Africa is hard to come by. A 2014 British Council study estimated that nearly one in four Nigerian graduates (23.1%) were unemployed. In Kenya, the study said, it took graduates an average of five years to secure their first job. In South Africa, graduate unemployment stood at just 5.8% in 2008. By 2023, this had more than doubled to 11.8%. When looking specifically at young graduates aged 20–29 – a useful proxy for those newly entering the job market – the figure is even starker: nearly one in three (30.3%) were unemployed in 2023.

These figures signal a crisis. The mismatch between graduates and opportunities makes it clear that it’s essential to find diverse ways of making a living.

So what do graduates do to generate livelihoods? We recently conducted research tracking more than 500 African tertiary graduates across 21 universities (nine in African countries and 12 in other countries) over five years to provide some answers.

The findings showed that graduates were piecing together livelihoods from multiple sources rather than walking the straight road of a career. Their paths were complex. Only 16% of the total sample moved smoothly from tertiary education into a job and remained in employment over the period of the survey.

Knowing this, universities can help provide graduates with the skills and resources they will need for the real world.

Graduates build portfolios of income

The study showed that African graduates are resourceful in generating livelihoods. From their responses we identified some trends.

First, they do more than one thing. Almost half of the respondents were engaged in more than one activity – for example, working while running a side business or pursuing further studies. A Ugandan graduate explained how he juggled salaried work, family farming projects and continued education.

Second, they make education itself a livelihood. Scholarships, postgraduate degrees and research opportunities provided both income and stability. Others use underemployment (jobs that don’t match their qualification, skills or ambitions) as stepping stones, gaining experience while waiting for better opportunities.

Third, entrepreneurship or self-employment has a role. While only a small minority relied solely on their own businesses, about a fifth of graduates supplemented their income in this way. Some sold goods, others started NGOs or social enterprises, and many saw entrepreneurship as a safety net in an unpredictable labour market.

But this isn’t just about necessity. Graduates are motivated by opportunity, passion projects, and the chance to build something of their own, often with family members. This challenges the common view that entrepreneurship in Africa is driven only by desperation. In reality, necessity and opportunity overlap, and both are part of how graduates make a living.

Beyond ‘waiting’ for an opportunity

The pathways described by graduates don’t fit the conventional picture of being “stuck” or “unemployed”. Instead, they are marked by movement, improvisation and continuous reinvention.

Even when underemployed, graduates often describe their jobs as dignified or at least as stepping stones. They are investing in their futures, sharpening skills and building networks.

Read more: Four things that count when a South African graduate looks for work

This kind of agency (the capacity to navigate uncertainty and imagine alternative futures) is a crucial resource. It allows young Africans to find dignity and purpose in contexts where institutional support and job opportunities are limited.

What universities can do differently to prepare graduates

These findings raise tough questions for universities. If the education-to-employment pipeline is so complex, what role should higher education play in preparing graduates? Our research points to some answers:

First, universities must stop clinging to outdated concepts like “employability”. Degrees are not tickets to stable jobs. Instead, education should prepare students for diversified, non-linear livelihoods. This means teaching not just technical skills but also resilience, adaptability and entrepreneurial thinking.

Read more: Millions of young South Africans are jobless: study finds that giving them ‘soft’ skills like networking helps their prospects

Entrepreneurship education is one starting point. Courses on business planning, financial management and networking can help graduates who want to start or sustain ventures.

But skills alone are not enough. Without supportive ecosystems, such as incubators, access to finance and mentorship, many small businesses fail. Universities could act as hubs, linking students and graduates to government programmes, private sector partners and alumni networks. Partnerships between universities and government agencies, like South Africa’s National Youth Development Agency which funds business ventures, need to be forged.

Career services also need to evolve. Rather than focusing narrowly on job placements, universities should help students explore multiple career paths, build social capital and access opportunities for income diversification. Practical resources, like co-working spaces, short courses or “micro-credentials” that allow graduates to quickly pick up new skills, and seed funding could give graduates a head start.

Read more: It’s time to take a new, more creative approach to career counselling

Finally, alumni networks are a powerful but underused asset. Showcasing graduates who have successfully diversified their income can inspire others and change the prevailing narrative.

Education should no longer be seen simply as a bridge to wage employment, but as a platform for building flexible, multi-dimensional livelihoods.

A new story of graduate life

The African youth population is still growing, and the labour market will not suddenly expand to meet demand. That reality can sound daunting. But the stories of young graduates also show resilience, creativity and determination. They are not passively “waiting” for jobs – they are actively constructing futures, often against the odds.

Universities and other tertiary education institutions must catch up. By supporting entrepreneurship, fostering networks and recognising the reality of non-linear transitions, they can help graduates navigate uncertainty with confidence.

The future of work in Africa will not be defined by smooth transitions, but by complex entanglements. Recognising and supporting these entanglements may be one of the most important tasks of higher education in the decades ahead.

– Graduated, now what? Survey of young Africans shows degrees don’t always land them a job
– https://theconversation.com/graduated-now-what-survey-of-young-africans-shows-degrees-dont-always-land-them-a-job-264999

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CEO da Fundação Merck mantém encontro com a Primeira-Dama do Senegal e 13 Primeiras-Damas da África na 7ª edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck para discutir a estratégia de desenvolvimento de capacidade de saúde no Senegal

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, realizou a 7ª Edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck – MFFLI 2025 recentemente. A Cimeira foi aberta pelo Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck, e Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck & Presidente da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck e por S. Exª. Senhora MARIE KHONE FAYE, Primeira-Dama da República do Senegal e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” bem como pelas Primeiras-Damas de Angola, Cabo Verde, República Centro Africana, Gabão, da Gâmbia, Gana, Quénia, Libéria, Maldivas, Nigeria, São Tomé e Príncipe, Senegal e do Zimbabwe.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej declarou: “É um grande prazer receber Sua Excelência, Sra. MARIE KHONE FAYE, Primeira-Dama da República do Senegal, e nomeá-la Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”. Temos o prazer de iniciar esta jornada impactante juntos, por meio dos nossos programas.

Tenho o prazer de informar que, até o momento, concedemos 25 bolsas de estudo para médicos senegaleses em diversas especialidades, como Oncologia, Diabetes, Fertilidade e Embriologia. Em breve, recrutaremos mais médicos para diversas outras especialidades críticas e carentes”.

Sua Excelência, Sra. MARIE KHONE FAYE, Primeira-Dama da República do Senegal e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, declarou: “É uma verdadeira honra ser nomeada Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do Que uma Mãe” e participar da 7ª Edição da Cúpula da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck, juntamente com as minhas colegas Primeiras-Damas Africanas e Asiáticas. Sinto-me profundamente inspirada pelas conquistas das minhas queridas irmãs por meio dos programas da Fundação Merck. Também tenho o prazer de partilhar que, no meu país, até o momento, 25 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas a nossos jovens médicos em especialidades importantes e, especialmente, ao Curso de Mestrado em Diabetes, oferecido em francês, tornando-o mais acessível aos nossos médicos locais.

Além disso, estou entusiasmada em lançar o programa “Educar Linda”, que apoia a educação de meninas. Acredito firmemente no empoderamento das meninas por meio da educação, pois ela desempenha um papel crucial na construção de nações mais fortes e saudáveis.”

Assista ao discurso da Primeira-Dama do Senegal e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais do Que uma Mãe durante a Cúpula da Iniciativa das Primeiras Damas da Fundação Merck 2025 aqui: https://youtu.be/xQ9fTgcAdOE

Assista ao vídeo da CEO da Fundação Merck, Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej durante o encontro mantido com S. Exª., Senhora MARIE KHONE FAYE, Primeira-Dama do Senegal e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”: https://apo-opa.co/3VzYkzz

No segundo dia da Cimeira, foi realizada a reunião do Comité da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck – MFFLI entre as Primeiras-Damas Africanas, o Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck, onde as Primeiras-Damas Africanas e Asiáticas compartilharam os relatórios de impacto dos programas da Fundação Merck nos seus respectivos países, bem como discutiram a futura estratégia.

Assista ao video da reunião do Comité MFFLI: https://apo-opa.co/3VScool

Durante a Luminária, também foi realizada uma reunião entre a Primeira Dama do Senegal e a CEO da Fundação Merck, Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej para discutir o impacto dos programas em curso e definir estratégias para desenvolver ainda mais a capacidade de assistência médica e de mídia no Senegal para melhorar o atendimento ao paciente e aumentar a conscientização sobre uma ampla gama de questões sociais e de saúde no país.

Assista ao vídeo do encontro entre a CEO da Fundação Merck, a Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej e a Primeira Dama do Senegal: https://apo-opa.co/42NxLL4

Em conjunto com a Primeira-Dama do Senegal, a Fundação Merck concedeu 25 bolsas de estudo para médicos locais no Senegal em diversas especialidades críticas e carentes. Das 25 bolsas de estudo:

  • 8 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas na área vital da oncologia, para que os pacientes possam receber tratamento oncológico de qualidade e equitativo no seu país de origem.
  • 7 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas aos nossos médicos para treinamento prático em Fertilidade e Embriologia, bem como para cursos de Pós-Graduação de um ano e Mestrado de dois anos em Cuidados Sexuais e Reprodutivos. Isso contribuirá significativamente para o avanço da saúde da mulher e revolucionará os cuidados reprodutivos e de fertilidade no Senegal.
  • 10 bolsas de estudo foram concedidas para o Curso de Mestrado em Diabetes. Após a conclusão, esses médicos não só estarão preparados para tratar pacientes com diabetes de forma eficaz, como também desempenharão um papel fundamental na conscientização sobre a doença e na promoção da importância de um estilo de vida saudável nas nossas comunidades.

No total, a Fundação Merck concedeu 2.280 bolsas de estudo para médicos de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria, com a Primeira Dama do Senegal, também anunciou a abertura de candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes prémios de jornalismo, canção, moda, cinema, para estudantes e novos talentos com potencial nessas áreas.

Além disso, em parceria com a Primeira Dama do Senegal, a Fundação Merck também está a lançar sete livros de histórias infantis, “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate da Jaqueline”, “Não É Quem És”, “Viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude Sem Açúcar”, e “Pressão de Mark”. Os livros de histórias abordam diversas questões sociais e de saúde, como o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o combate à violência do género e a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão. Os livros de histórias estarão disponíveis em língua francesa.

A 7ª Edição da Cimeira da Iniciativa das Primeiras-Damas foi stransmitida em directo nos canais das redes sociais da Fundação Merck e da Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/42GRagJ), X (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFDdO), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4nMaCkb), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFGq0).

Link para a transmissão em directo no Facebook da Sessão de Abertura do Painel de Alto Nível das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação  : https://apo-opa.co/4nKBW2l

Fundação Merck está a transformar o cenário de atendimento ao paciente e fazer história junto com os seus parceiros em África, Ásia e além, através de:

Mais de 2.280 bolsas de estudo fornecidas pela Fundação Merck para médicos de 52 países em mais de 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes.  

A Fundação Merck também está a criar uma mudança cultural e quebrar o silêncio sobre uma ampla gama de questões sociais e de saúde em África e em comunidades carentes através de:

Mais de 3.700 profissionais da mídia de mais de 35 países treinados para aumentar a conscientização sobre diferentes questões sociais e de saúde

8 prémios diferentes lançados anualmente para a melhor cobertura da mídia, designers de moda, filmes e músicas

Cerca de 30 músicas abordando questões sociais e de saúde, por cantores locais de toda a África

8 livros de histórias infantis em três línguas: inglês, francês e português

7 filmes de animação de conscientização em cinco línguas: inglês, francês, português, espanhol e Swahili para conscientizar sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão e apoiar a educação de meninas.

Programa televisivo pan-africano “Nossa África da Fundação Merck” aborda questões sociais e de saúde em África através da comunidade “Moda e ARTE com Propósito”

Mais de 950 bolsas de estudo oferecidas a estudantes africanas de alto desempenho, mas carentes, para empoderá-las a concluir os seus estudos

15 canais de mídia social com mais de 8 milhões de seguidores

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida:
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU
X: http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/4nIvDMH

Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e visa melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e impulsionar suas vidas por meio da ciência e da tecnologia. Nossos esforços concentram-se principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carentes, fortalecer a capacidade em saúde e pesquisa científica, empoderar meninas na educação e empoderar pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck.  Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga as redes sociais da Fundação Merck: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9) e Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde de comunidades carentes. Embora colabore com diversos parceiros, incluindo governos, para alcançar os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia quaisquer actividades, eleições ou regimes políticos, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e promover o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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