During her keynote speech at the 11th edition of the "Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary," which was held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo conveyed her feelings of gratitude and fulfillment. She reminisced on her time as First Lady, highlighting that it was a chance to serve the Ghanaian people and have a significant influence, as her husband, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, gets ready to finish his term in office in January 2025.
She acknowledged the help she had from her husband, Ghanaians, and partners like Merck Foundation, saying, "I leave a fulfilled woman." She informed guests that even after her husband leaves office as president, the Rebecca Foundation will keep fighting for the rights of women and children in Ghana. Rebecca Akufo-Addo highlighted the successful collaboration with Merck Foundation and pointed out important developments in Ghana's healthcare system, especially in improving patient care, combating the stigma associated with infertility, and encouraging girls' education. She praised Merck for offering 189 scholarships since 2018, which have helped underserved specialists have better access to affordable, high-quality healthcare.
Through media training sessions and public advertising, the First Lady underlined that the partnership with Merck has raised awareness of delicate health concerns, such infertility. She praised the Merck Foundation's programs, such as the Healthy Lifestyle Awards and the "More than a Mother" campaign, which have honored more than 100 recipients across a range of industries.
Tanzanian President H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan officially opened the meeting, which was attended by keynote speakers and other notable Merck Foundation representatives as well as First Ladies from 15 other nations. Representatives from several countries attended the event, demonstrating a shared commitment to tackling social and health issues in Asia and Africa.