Africa-Press – Gambia. The Gambia is hosting the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa-Asia Luminary Conference 2025 in Banjul, under the esteemed patronage of Her Excellency, the First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow. The two-day event, held from October 14th to 15th at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, brings together First Ladies from six African countries to deliberate on strengthening healthcare systems and advancing women’s leadership and employment opportunities.
In her opening remarks, First Lady Fatoumatta Bah Barrow emphasized the crucial role of women leaders in driving sustainable development and social progress.
“Today as we convene for the 12th edition of Africa Asia Luminary, we gather our sisters, advocates, and champions of progress. Together we will reflect on our shared commitment to strengthening health systems, building the capacity of our health care professionals, promoting responsible journalism, and supporting the next generation of African leaders and caregivers,” she said.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of the Merck Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s transformative contributions to healthcare development in The Gambia and across Africa.
“In the Gambia alone, we provided, in partnership with the first lady of the Gambia, 94 scholarships for healthcare providers. It is a transformational number since, of course, we know the population of the Gambia is small, and this is considered a huge, huge achievement and transformation in the patient care landscape,” he said.
Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow commended the efforts of African First Ladies for their leadership and commitment to advancing health, education, and social welfare across the continent.
“I am honored to join this distinguished gathering of Africa’s First Ladies. You are all women of grace, courage, and purpose whose leadership continues to transform and uplift countless lives across our countries and the African continent at large. Through your determined efforts in advancing health, education, and social welfare, you are proven to be not just symbols of hope, but also true agents of change,” he said.
The conference underscored the importance of collaboration between African nations and strategic partners such as the Merck Foundation in enhancing healthcare delivery, empowering women, and supporting the next generation of leaders.
This year’s Luminary also focused on addressing social and health challenges, improving access to quality healthcare, and promoting women’s empowerment as key pillars for sustainable development in Africa and beyond.
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