Bukola Afeni
The CEO of Merck Foundation Senator Dr Rasha Kelej has reteirated the commitment of the body to improve quality health care services in Africa, Asia and beyond.
She made the disclosure at the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary in Tanzania.
According to her, the conference is a testament of the Foundation’s way of improving access to quality health care services.
Senator Rasha commended the Government of Tanzania , the steering committee and all partners for their participation in making the program a success.
“We will share our experiences and discuss the impact of our programs in building health care and media capacity, while raising awareness on a wide range of critical social and health issues “, she said.
She said Merck Foundation has provided more than 2080 scholarships to young doctors from 52 countries.
“We have provided support in 44 critical and underserved specialties including Diabetes, Endocrinology, Oncology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, and many others”, she said.
The Minister of Community Development, Gender Women and Special Groups Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Dorothy Gwajima said community awareness is important in addressing health issues and creating a sustainable future.
She added that the Luminary conference is critical in strengthening health of girls and woman.
“The conference delegates will discuss pertinent health issues such as reproductive health , cancer , diabetes and many others and proffer solutions that will influence the world at large”.
The Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, said the Foundation is glad to host the prestigious conference in Tanzania.
“We are bringing together Africa”s First Ladies, Ministers, Policymakers, Academia, Healthcare providers and Media from over 70 countries.
“At Merck Foundation, our mission is to improve overall health and well-being by strengthening healthcare capacity and providing access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions across Africa, Asia, and beyond. ”