The First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has lauded the Merck Foundation for its impactful campaign to break the stigma surrounding infertility in Africa and Asia, citing its "More than a Mother" initiative for empowering people to openly discuss infertility.

Speaking at the 11th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, she noted that the campaign has helped many families find happiness by addressing a previously taboo subject.

As Ghana’s Ambassador for Merck’s "More than a Mother" campaign, Mrs. Akufo-Addo called for an end to the stigmatisation of individuals affected by infertility.

She applauded the campaign's success in Ghana for fostering openness and reducing stigma, which has encouraged many to seek support and solutions.

The event, held from October 29-30, 2024, brought together First Ladies from Africa and Asia, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Dignitaries such as Ghana’s First Lady, Monica Chakwera of Malawi, Kartumu Yarta Boakai of Liberia, Rachel Rutu of Kenya, and Fatoumata Bah-Barrow of The Gambia joined alongside representatives from 70 countries, including 400 delegates spanning health professionals, media, and government officials.

Mrs. Akufo-Addo extended her appreciation for Merck Foundation’s various programmes that address gender-based violence, promote health, and support girls’ education. 

She commended the Foundation’s "Educating Linda" project, dedicated to advancing girls' education in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which advocates for inclusive, quality education.

"Investing in girls’ education transforms communities, countries, and the world," she stated, emphasising that such programmes empower girls to contribute meaningfully to society.

Highlighting Merck Foundation’s medical scholarships, Mrs. Akufo-Addo noted that since 2018, 189 Ghanaian doctors have received training in critical areas, advancing healthcare access and quality in Ghana.

The scholarships, she explained, have strengthened occupational care and promoted equitable health services nationwide.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, underscored the organisation’s achievements in tackling infertility, combating cancer, and supporting girls’ education.

She highlighted that doctors from 52 countries across Africa and Asia have received specialized training in oncology, fertility, cardiology, and urology, thanks to the Foundation’s partnerships with First Ladies.

The Chairman of the Merck Foundation, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, pledged the Foundation’s commitment to transforming healthcare and improving lives across Africa and Asia.

He has therefore encouraged participants to apply their training to build robust healthcare systems and emphasized the crucial role of girls' education in economic development.