Lusaka: Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African First Ladies and various Ministries of Health, marked 'World Cancer Day 2026' by advancing oncology care capacity through the provision of 258 cancer care scholarships across 34 countries. According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, is making strides in oncology care by offering one-year clinical training in several oncology sub-specialties and postgraduate diplomas and master's degrees in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology, and Pain Management. These efforts are part of the Cancer Access Program, aimed at increasing the limited number of oncologists in Africa. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized the initiative's impact: 'Together with African First Ladies, we have strengthened cancer care capacity on the continent by providing 258 Oncology Scholarships, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and developing multidisciplinary cance r care teams. We are proud to be making history by training the first oncologists and multidisciplinary cancer care teams in countries like The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Burundi." Merck Foundation has provided over 2,500 scholarships globally for healthcare providers in 44 underserved specialties, with a focused effort on transforming patient care, particularly in cancer treatment. The Foundation is establishing multidisciplinary oncology care teams in many African countries, offering scholarships in various oncology sub-specialties including Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, and more. WHO data from 2022 highlights Africa's cancer burden, with about 1.1 million new cases and 700,000 deaths annually. These figures underscore the importance of Merck Foundation's oncology scholarships in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent. Dr. Rasha Kelej also noted the importance of early detection and prevention, stating that "nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnos ed early." To raise awareness, Merck Foundation, in partnership with African First Ladies, launched a children's storybook and an animation film titled "Ray of Hope," focusing on childhood cancer and the importance of early detection. Dr. Judith Mkwaila, a Merck Foundation alumni from Malawi, shared her experience, stating that the scholarship allowed her to become the first and only female Chief Surgeon at Mzuzu Central Hospital. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to deepen her skills and knowledge in cancer treatment, contributing to enhanced cancer care in her region.
- February 14, 2026