The Merck Foundation is officially opening its 11th Africa Asia Luminary today, October 29, 2024 under the theme: “Together We can Make a Difference.”
Liberia’s First Lady Kartumu Boakai will serve as the keynote speaker and will be honored as the Ambassador of the “Merck More than a Mother” campaign.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Boakai, on Monday, October 28, held a productive meeting with Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania which was particularly significant as it marked Mrs. Boakai’s first attendance at the forum since she became First Lady.
During their conversations, Dr. Kelej expressed excitement in welcoming Mrs. Boakai as both a guest of honor and provided her with the overview of the Merck Foundation’s initiatives, including its programs in Liberia and the agenda for the upcoming conference.
With warm embraces, handshakes, and photo opportunities, Dr. Kelej looked forward to engaging sessions that would showcase the foundation’s impact on patient care and raise awareness of various social and health issues.
First Lady Boakai thanked Dr. Kelej and her team for the invitation, expressing her honor to participate in the forum, which she believes is vital for establishing strong partnerships to improve the lives of women and girls.
Mrs. Boakai also expressed her gratitude to the Merck Foundation’s family for their ongoing support and commitment to promoting Merck’s programs in Liberia and beyond.
The event is expected to attract over 14 African First Ladies and will be held under the patronage of Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, alongside Merck Foundation Board of Trustee Chairman Dr. Frank Stangenburg-Haverkamp.
This year’s gathering will commemorate two significant anniversaries: the 7th Anniversary of the Merck Foundation and the 12th Anniversary of its impactful development programs, which have transformed health systems globally.
