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“I'm honored to share the impactful Keynote speech video of H.E. MONICA CHAKWERA, The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother delivered during the inauguration of the 11th Edition of the annual conference, 'Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary'. This event, held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania, and in partnership with the Government of Tanzania, took place on the 29th and 30th of October in Dar es Salaam.
In her speech, she said, ‘Our journey with Merck Foundation began in 2020, and I am proud to say that our partnership has continued to grow stronger each year. Together, we have embarked on several initiatives aimed at transforming the lives of people in Malawi and beyond. Today, I would like to share with you the remarkable impact of our joint programs that have been contributing to the social and economic development of Malawi. We have made a significant difference in a short period of time.
One program that is particularly close to my heart is the "Educating Linda" initiative. This program is dedicated to supporting girls' education, which is an important part of my office strategy. I firmly believe that investing in girls' education is one of the most powerful tools we have to transform communities and nations. Educated girls are less likely to marry young and more likely to lead healthy and productive lives. They play a crucial role in shaping the future of their families and societies.
As a part of Merck Foundation Educating Linda program, we have sponsored the education of 60 best performing girls in their secondary schools till they graduate. I am very happy with this program as it’s a big milestone for our young Malawian girls. Soon, we will also distribute thousands of essential school items among our children.
Furthermore, our partnership with Merck Foundation has been instrumental in building and enhancing healthcare capacity in Malawi. To date, we have provided more than 48 scholarships of one year diploma and two-year master degree to young Malawian doctors in critical medical specialties, including Fertility & Embryology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Cardiovascular Preventive Medicine, Oncology, Internal Medicine, Sexual & Reproductive Care, and more. These scholarships are crucial for enhancing the skills of our healthcare professionals and improving the overall quality of healthcare in our country.
Merck Foundation has supported 13 women from Malawi as a part of "Empowering Berna" initiative by providing them with an opportunity to establish their own small businesses, enabling them to become financially independent and empowered. Their lives have been completely transformed, and they now have the chance to feel more than just mothers —they are entrepreneurs, leaders, and role models in their communities.
On behalf of the people of Malawi, we warmly embrace our long-term partnership with Merck Foundation and with all of you, esteemed First Ladies of Africa.
Happy anniversary, Merck Foundation, keep up the good work. "
Stay tuned for more exciting updates!
Dr. Rasha Kelej
CEO of Merck Foundation
Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary …...more
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