African First Ladies Champion Healthcare at Merck Foundation Summit

The 7th Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit concluded successfully on June 20, 2025, in Monrovia, Liberia.

The summit, spanning two days, saw participation from First Ladies of 14 African and Asian nations.

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of MFFLI, inaugurated the event.

The First Ladies, serving as Guests of Honour and Keynote Speakers, addressed critical healthcare issues impacting their respective nations.

Discussions focused on improving access to quality healthcare, particularly for women and children. The summit highlighted collaborative efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across continents.

This initiative underscores the growing global commitment to addressing health disparities and improving healthcare access in developing nations. The impact of these collaborations will be crucial in shaping future healthcare strategies in Africa and Asia.

Karanveer Sharma

A dedicated journalist and legal expert with a passion for uncovering the truth and advocating for justice. With hands-on experience in investigative journalism, legal research, and case analysis, I possess a strong ability to break down complex legal and societal issues into clear, impactful narratives. My work is driven by a commitment to transparency, integrity, and empowering people with accurate, insightful information.