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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Chief Executive Officer, Merck Foundation, Dr Rasha Kelej, has been recognised among the “100 Most Influential Africans 2025” for her outstanding contributions to healthcare capacity-building, women’s empowerment and public health policy across the continent.
Kelej has been acclaimed for championing long-term, sustainable healthcare solutions, focusing on building local expertise rather than short-term interventions. Her work has significantly expanded access to specialised medical care in many African countries, particularly for women and marginalised communities.
A flagship initiative under her stewardship is the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI), which partners African First Ladies to advocate for women’s health, girls’ education and scientific training. The initiative has strengthened advocacy at the highest political levels, driving cross-country collaboration and national commitment to health and education reforms.
Beyond her continental engagement, Kelej has also served as an Egyptian Senator, a role that has enabled her to contribute to policy formulation at the national level while advancing public health, gender equality and social development across Africa.
She responded: “I am truly honoured to be recognized as one of the ‘100 Most Influential Africans 2025.’ I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional and prominent leaders, including the Presidents of Ghana, Angola, Burkina Faso, and South Africa, who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives.”
