Merck Foundation Advances Cancer Care in Africa

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck Group, is marking 'World Cancer Day 2026' by continuing its Cancer Access Program in Africa. The program aims to increase the limited number of oncologists and advance cancer care capacity across the continent. To date, Merck Foundation has provided 258 Oncology Scholarships to healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries, significantly increasing the number of trained specialists and developing multidisciplinary cancer care teams. In several countries, this initiative has led to the training of the first oncologists. Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized the program's role in addressing late diagnosis and the shortage of trained specialists. The foundation also provides postgraduate diplomas and master's degrees from reputable UK universities and has launched awareness materials like the 'Ray of Hope' storybook and animation film. Dr. Judith Mkwaila from Malawi, a scholarship recipient, highlighted the program's impact on her ability to establish a General Surgical Clinic and become the first female Chief Surgeon at Mzuzu Central Hospital.