By Catherine Murombedzi
Correspondent
Dr Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation, has been named one of the “100 Most Influential Africans 2025.”
This recognition highlights her dual-impact strategy: strengthening African healthcare through thousands of specialised medical scholarships and leveraging high-level political partnerships—notably with African First Ladies.
The initiative aims to dismantle social stigmas and promote gender equity. Her work represents a shift from short-term aid to sustainable, policy-driven health reform across the continent.
Under Dr Kelej’s visionary leadership, the Merck Foundation has transitioned from traditional aid to a model of sustainable development.
By awarding thousands of scholarships in critical, underserved medical specialties—including oncology, fertility care, diabetes, and hypertension—she has been instrumental in building a local workforce of highly skilled specialists.
Her focus remains clear: establishing long-term expertise within African nations rather than relying on temporary external interventions.
Elevating Advocacy Through First Ladies
A defining achievement of her tenure is the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI). By partnering with African First Ladies, Dr. Kelej has successfully elevated critical social issues—such as girls’ education, the elimination of infertility stigma, and gender equality in science—to the highest levels of political discourse. This high-level advocacy has sparked national reforms and fostered unprecedented cross-country collaboration.
A Unique Blend of Philanthropy and Policy
Beyond her work with the Foundation, Dr. Kelej’s influence is bolstered by her role as an Egyptian Senator. This position has allowed her to bridge the gap between grassroots philanthropy and national policy formulation. Her efforts continue to drive social development and health equity, positioning her as a pivotal figure in Africa’s journey toward self-reliance.
A Shared Vision for the Continent
Responding to the announcement, Dr. Kelej expressed her profound gratitude while acknowledging the collective effort of Africa’s top leadership.
“I am truly honoured to be recognised as one of the ‘100 Most Influential Africans 2025’. I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional and prominent leaders, including the Presidents of Ghana, Angola, Burkina Faso, and South Africa, who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives,” she said.
She extended her congratulations to all fellow honorees, describing the recognition as a shared milestone for those dedicated to the continent’s sustainable growth and social transformation.
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