The Merck Foundation, in partnership with the First Lady of The Gambia, H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, has awarded 87 scholarships to Gambian doctors across critical and underserved medical specialties, marking a significant step in reshaping the country’s healthcare landscape.

The announcement came during the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit 2025, which brought together the First Lady of The Gambia and 13 First Ladies from Africa and Asia. The summit, inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of the Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation, focused on advancing patient care and building healthcare capacity across the continent.

Dr. Rasha Kelej praised the long-standing partnership with The Gambia:
“Since 2017, we have worked closely with the First Lady to build local healthcare capacity. By providing scholarships in fields like oncology, fertility, reproductive care, diabetes, and neonatal care, we are making history in The Gambia, ensuring patients receive quality care at home without needing to travel abroad.”

The First Lady echoed this commitment, highlighting the impact on health security and education:
“These 87 scholarships will greatly strengthen The Gambia’s healthcare system. In addition, through the ‘Educating Linda’ program, we are empowering 40 underprivileged girls annually, giving them the chance to shape brighter futures.”

Of the 87 scholarships awarded, 27 were in oncology, 23 in fertility and reproductive care, and others in diabetes, respiratory, acute medicine, and neonatal care. The initiative also supports doctors in establishing clinics, expanding access to specialized care across the country.

Beyond healthcare training, the Merck Foundation collaborates with The Gambia’s First Lady on community programs tackling infertility stigma, gender-based violence, and chronic diseases. This includes children’s storybooks, media training, and cultural initiatives such as music and fashion awards to raise awareness.

Since 2012, the Merck Foundation has provided more than 2,280 scholarships for doctors across 52 countries, alongside broader campaigns addressing healthcare gaps and social challenges in underserved communities.

With this latest initiative, The Gambia stands poised to benefit from a stronger, more resilient healthcare system, one built on local expertise and a commitment to inclusive social progress.

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of The Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4mRRoK8

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of The Gambia, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/485jHA1

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 MFFLIcommittee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4gc4Hma