Trailblazer in Healthcare and Women’s Empowerment: Dr. Rasha Kelej Named Among 100 Most Influential Africans 2025

By Daily News Reporter

In a year defined by transformative leadership across Africa, one name continues to shine brightly: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” campaign. Recognized for the seventh consecutive year by New African Magazine (UK), Dr. Kelej has been named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2025, joining the ranks of continental leaders such as President João Lourenço of Angola, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, and President John Mahama of Ghana.

Dr. Kelej’s recognition underscores her relentless drive to transform healthcare systems and empower women and girls across Africa. “I am deeply honoured to be recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African, and to be named alongside the esteemed leaders of our continent,” she said.

“This recognition acknowledges my continued efforts to build healthcare capacity, empower women living with infertility, and support girl education.” She added.

Under her leadership, Merck Foundation has awarded 2,500 scholarships to healthcare providers from 52 countries, spanning 44 underserved medical specialties. These programs have produced pioneers—often the first specialists in their countries—in fields such as fertility care, embryology, reproductive medicine, psychiatry, and women’s health.

Dr. Kelej proudly notes, “We are building a lasting legacy in Africa. Many of our alumni are now advancing equitable healthcare and transforming patient care in their nations.”

Her flagship initiative, “More Than a Mother”, launched in 2015, has become a continental movement breaking infertility stigma and empowering childless women. Through the “Empowering Berna” program, women are supported to start small businesses, ensuring dignity and independence.

Education remains central to her mission. In partnership with 33 African First Ladies, Merck Foundation has provided 1,200 scholarships to underprivileged schoolgirls across 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and pursue their dreams.

And beyond healthcare, Dr. Kelej has harnessed the power of media, fashion, and arts to amplify voices and shift mindsets. From Pan-African TV programs and health media training to awards for best songs, films, and fashion designs, her initiatives have sparked cultural conversations around infertility, gender-based violence, and women’s empowerment.

Her reach extends to 8.5 million social media followers, where she shares empowering content and awareness campaigns, inspiring a new generation of Africans.

Dr. Kelej’s recognition is more than a personal accolade—it is a celebration of a movement that continues to reshape Africa’s healthcare and social landscape. By uniting policymakers, academia, media, and communities, she has built a platform of hope, empowerment, and progress.

As New African Magazine highlights, the 2025 list is a tribute to “leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose influence and impact continue to drive transformation across Africa and beyond.” Dr. Rasha Kelej stands tall among them—a visionary whose work is leaving an indelible mark on the continent’s future.

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