Dr. Rasha Kelej, the Chief Executive Officer of Merck Foundation, has been recognised by the New African Magazine as one of the 100 most influential Africans for the year 2025.
This marks Kelej’s recognition for the seventh consecutive year, alongside notable figures such as Angola's President João Lourenço, South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Ghana's President John Mahama, all acknowledged for their advocacy of proper healthcare and the empowerment of women and girls.
The special edition highlights individuals who are shaping Africa's current and future landscape. The magazine's correspondents have thoroughly researched the continent to identify the shining stars of 2025—leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose influence and contributions are pivotal in driving transformation across Africa and beyond.
In her statement, Kelej expressed her renewed motivation and commitment to enhancing healthcare across the continent by empowering women facing infertility issues and promoting the education of girls.
“This recognition is very special to me, as it acknowledges my continued efforts to build and strengthen healthcare capacity, empower women living with infertility, and support girl education through our Merck Foundation programs," said Kelej.
Dr. Rasha Kelej initiated a scholarship program called “More Than a Mother” in 2015, aimed at establishing equitable and quality reproductive and fertility care, challenging infertility stigma, and promoting girl-child education through a program named “Educating Linda.”
She has reportedly partnered with more than 33 First Ladies from both African and Asian countries to promote the Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” initiative in their nations. According to Kelej, her foundation has successfully awarded 2,500 scholarships to healthcare providers in 52 countries across 44 medical fields.
“I am proud that many of our alumni have become, or are on their way to becoming, the first specialists in their respective countries. We are building a lasting legacy in Africa,” she stated.
The foundation has also enabled women without children to start small businesses through the Empowering Berna program. Additionally, it annually honours journalists who report on issues related to infertility stigma, gender-based violence, and child labour through the Africa Media Recognition Award, “More Than a Mother.”
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