The 11th Merck Foundation Africa-Asia Luminary Summit has begun in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
This summit unites first ladies from over 15 African and Asian countries to tackle urgent healthcare challenges.
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan opened the event, emphasizing healthcare investment and girls’ education.
She highlighted Tanzania’s establishment of over 127 district hospitals and 367 healthcare facilities.
President Samia noted a significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rates, with maternal deaths dropping by over 80%.
However, a shortage of specialized healthcare professionals remains a critical issue.
The Merck Foundation is addressing this gap through specialized training for doctors in Tanzania.
Education for girls is another focus, as President Samia spoke about its transformative power for women’s empowerment.
Merck Foundation Chairman Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp praised the First Ladies for their support of the “More Than a Mother” campaign.
The summit will foster sustainable healthcare solutions by bringing together ministers, policymakers, and health experts from over 70 countries.