Dr. Rasha Kelej Recognized as One of Africa’s 100 Most Influential for 2025 Dateline London, UK — December 23, 2025 Lead Paragraph Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation and architect of the “More Than a Mother “campaign, has been honored by New African magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans for 2025.
This recognition, announced in December, places her among esteemed leaders across the continent, including sitting presidents and prominent reformers. Body. Dr.
Kelej’s impact on healthcare and social transformation in Africa has been significant. Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has focused on long-term capacity building, particularly in regions with limited access to specialized healthcare.
The foundation has provided 2,500 scholarships to healthcare professionals from 52 countries, covering 44 critical and underserved medical specialties, with a particular emphasis on reproductive and fertility care.
The “More Than a Mother “campaign, launched in 2015, has been instrumental in addressing the stigma surrounding infertility and childlessness, as well as male infertility and women’s empowerment.
The campaign has engaged over 33 African and Asian first ladies as ambassadors, partnering with governments, universities, medical societies, and the media in over 52 countries. Dr.
Kelej’s influence extends beyond clinical training and advocacy.
The foundation’s initiatives have reached an estimated 8. 5 million people through social media platforms alone, emphasizing dignity and choice for women.
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Dr. Kelej’s recognition reflects her commitment to creating lasting, equitable impact across Africa.
As the continent continues to address health inequalities and social barriers, her inclusion among Africa’s most influential figures underscores the growing importance of leaders who measure influence by lives changed rather than titles held. Further details are expected regarding the ongoing initiatives of the Merck Foundation and the “More Than a Mother “campaign.
