Recognizing the critical need for awareness and prevention, Merck Foundation has also launched a range of community initiatives. One notable effort is the children’s storybook and its animated adaptation, “Mark’s Pressure”, which teaches young people the importance of reducing salt and sugar intake, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking—key habits for preventing hypertension and diabetes.To mark World Hypertension Day 2025, Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, reaffirmed its dedication to improving hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular care across Africa and beyond. Partnering with the First Ladies of Africa, Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and academic institutions, the Foundation is scaling up its flagship initiative—the “Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program.”
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, shared, “We are committed to transforming healthcare access by providing high-quality training to doctors across Africa and other underserved regions. Through our partnerships, we have granted over 860 scholarships for One-Year Online PG Diplomas and Two-Year Online Master’s Degrees in Diabetes, Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, Endocrinology, Cardiology, and Obesity & Weight Management. We have also supported Clinical Fellowship Programs in India and a special 3-month Diabetes Mastercourse in four languages—English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.”
These scholarships ensure equitable distribution of expertise by including doctors from both urban centers and remote regions, thereby strengthening the healthcare systems at grassroots levels. In total, Merck Foundation has awarded more than 2,270 scholarships across 44 underserved medical specialties to doctors from 52 countries.
Dr. Dzifa Ahadzi from Ghana, a Merck Foundation alumnus, expressed how the program enhanced her cardiology practice and enabled her to co-establish a Heart Failure Clinic that addresses diverse patient needs. “Merck Foundation’s support has significantly impacted my ability to deliver advanced cardiovascular care,” she said.
“Education from a young age is essential for building a healthier future,” said Dr. Kelej. “Our aim is to instill healthy behaviors in children and youth as a preventive strategy.”
Additionally, Merck Foundation’s pan-African TV program “Our Africa”, conceptualized and hosted by Dr. Kelej, features episodes dedicated to diabetes awareness and healthy living practices.
With the African continent experiencing the highest global prevalence of hypertension—affecting around 27% of adults—Merck Foundation’s integrated approach to capacity building, education, and awareness is vital for achieving long-term healthcare improvements.