ACCRA, Ghana, September 29, 2025 — On the occasion of World Heart Day 2025, the Merck Foundation(www.Merck-Foundation.com), in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, Ministries of Health, and Medical Societies, announced a milestone in its mission to strengthen healthcare capacity. Out of a total 2,400 scholarships provided so far, 925 scholarships were dedicated to doctors across 52 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
These scholarships cover a wide spectrum of critical fields: one-year Post-Graduate Diplomas and two-year Master’s Degrees in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Clinical Nutrition, and Obesity & Weight Management; plus fellowship programs in Diabetes and Hypertension.
Building Capacity in Underserved Specialties
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized the scope of the initiative:
“At Merck Foundation, we mark World Heart Day every day through continuous efforts to strengthen healthcare capacity and expand access to quality and equitable care in Cardiology, Hypertension, and Diabetes across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are helping to build a robust network of specialists, reaching beyond major cities and capitals.”
Doctors like Dr. Nakigunda Kiroga from Tanzania testify to the impact of the program:
“The training program has strengthened my confidence in assessing patients’ cardiovascular risks and applying evidence-based interventions. It has also improved my research capacity and ability to educate patients on treatment and lifestyle changes.”
Why It Matters
According to the World Heart Federation, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the second leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa, killing more than 1 million people annually. Alarmingly, high blood pressure accounts for over half of these deaths, underscoring the urgency for preventive measures and improved access to specialized care.
Beyond Training: Awareness Through Media
Merck Foundation has also launched community awareness programs including:
- Storybooks & Animation Films: “Mark’s Pressure” and “Sugar Free Jude” to raise awareness about early detection of hypertension and diabetes among children and youth.
- Pan-African TV Program “Our Africa”: Conceptualized and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej, featuring African designers, musicians, and health experts. Episodes on Healthy Lifestyle and Diabetes Awareness are available online.
Creative Industry Engagement
Merck Foundation also collaborates with Africa’s creative industries to drive health awareness. Annual awards for Media, Film, Fashion, and Music invite African talents to promote healthy lifestyles and prevention of diabetes and hypertension.
- 📝 Media Recognition Awards 2025
- 🎬 Film Awards 2025
- 👗 Fashion Awards 2025
- 🎶 Song Awards 2025
📩 Submissions: submit@merck-foundation.com
📅 Deadline: 30 October 2025
Social Impact at Scale
Since its inception in 2017, the Merck Foundation has granted more than 2,400 scholarships across 44 critical and underserved specialties, making it a cornerstone in Africa and Asia’s medical capacity-building.
Source & Attribution
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
SOURCE: Merck Foundation
