Dr. Rasha Kelej and First Ladies of Africa and Asia Unite to Combat Hypertension and Diabetes Through Education

Nairobi: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, in collaboration with First Ladies from Africa and Asia, marked World Hypertension Day by announcing a significant educational initiative aimed at enhancing healthcare capacity in 52 countries. This initiative focuses on providing specialized scholarships in cardiovascular, diabetes, and endocrinology care. According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation has launched the Nationwide Diabetes and Hypertension Blue Points Program, which has awarded 997 specialized scholarships to young healthcare providers. These scholarships offer one-year online postgraduate diplomas and two-year online master's degrees in various medical disciplines, alongside one-year clinical fellowship programs in cardiovascular and diabetes care. This effort is part of a broader strategy to expand access to quality healthcare across both capital cities and rural areas. Dr. Hazel W. Kariuki, a Merck Foundation Alumnus from Kenya, expressed gratitude for the transformative impac t of the scholarship on her clinical skills and patient management capabilities. The program has enabled her to make substantial contributions to healthcare services in her community, especially in improving cardiovascular outcomes. With the African region experiencing the highest prevalence of hypertension globally, Merck Foundation's scholarships are invaluable. In partnership with First Ladies from Africa and Asia, Merck Foundation has also launched children's storybooks and animation films to promote awareness of hypertension and diabetes, encouraging healthier lifestyles among children and families. Merck Foundation's pan-African TV program, "Our Africa," which is directed and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej, further supports this initiative by raising awareness about health issues through episodes broadcasted across various African countries. To promote a healthy lifestyle and early detection of diabetes and hypertension, Merck Foundation has also announced a range of awards for media, filmmakers, fashion des igners, and musicians across Africa. These awards aim to deliver powerful messages through various creative mediums, with a submission deadline of October 30, 2026.