Merck Foundation Commemorates International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2026
Merck Foundation, the philanthropic division of Merck KGaA Germany, in collaboration with African First Ladies, has marked the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) 2026. This significant observance was highlighted through their impactful initiatives, including the "More Than a Mother" and "Educating Linda" programs. A dedicated episode of their Pan-African television program, "Our Africa by Merck Foundation," was produced to address the severe harms and dangers associated with FGM, aiming to raise awareness and foster change across the continent.
Leadership and Advocacy Against FGM
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the "More Than a Mother" campaign, emphasized the urgency of this issue. "FGM is a harmful practice that violates the rights and dignity of millions of girls and women across Africa and beyond," she stated. "It has no health benefits, only harms. Together with my dear sisters, the African Ladies, we are committed to breaking the silence, raising awareness, and empowering communities to stand against this deeply rooted tradition." Dr. Kelej added that through the "Our Africa" TV program, they have detailed the perils of FGM and urged African communities to abandon this practice.
Annual Awards and Media Engagement
In partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation annually launches the More Than a Mother Awards. These awards recognize outstanding media work, films, songs, and fashion designs that contribute to ending FGM, supporting girls' education, and addressing other sensitive social issues. The foundation encourages submissions through their online platform to amplify voices advocating for change.
Educational Initiatives and Scholarships
Dr. Kelej highlighted education as a cornerstone of women's empowerment and a key tool in eliminating harmful practices like FGM. Through the "Educating Linda" program, in collaboration with First Ladies of Africa, Merck Foundation has provided over 1,200 annual scholarships to high-performing and underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries. This initiative enables these girls to complete their studies and realize their potential, with beneficiaries from nations such as:
- Botswana
- Burundi
- Cabo Verde
- Central African Republic
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Gabon
- The Gambia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Malawi
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- São Tome and Principe
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Additionally, Merck Foundation has distributed essential school items and launched awareness campaigns featuring children's storybooks, animation films, and songs to promote girl education and empowerment.
Global Reach and Impact
"Our Africa by Merck Foundation" is a Pan-African TV program conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Dr. Rasha Kelej. It has been broadcast on prime TV stations in numerous African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Zambia, and Namibia. The program is also accessible on various social media platforms, extending its reach to a global audience.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 230 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM, with Africa accounting for more than 144 million cases, representing over 60% of the global total. Merck Foundation's efforts aim to reduce these staggering numbers through sustained advocacy and community engagement.
Multimedia Resources for Awareness
To further their mission, Merck Foundation has released a range of multimedia content, including:
- Animation films like "Jackeline's Rescue" and "Ride Into the Future" to support girl education.
- Empowering songs such as "Girls Can," "Like Them," "Take me to School," "Tu Podes Sim," "ABC, 123," "Brighter day," and "Superwoman Song," performed by artists from across Africa.
- Educational storybooks and digital resources available through their website and app.
These resources are designed to inspire and educate, fostering a culture that values women's rights and education.
Merck Foundation continues to leverage its platforms to drive social change, emphasizing that collective action can create a future where every girl lives a healthy, empowered, and dignified life.
