Nairobi: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, underscores the significant role of creativity in voicing social issues as the organization commemorates World Art Day 2026. Through the Pan-African Art and Fashion with Purpose community, Merck Foundation celebrates six years of using art and fashion to address pivotal health and social challenges both in Africa and globally.According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation, the charitable branch of Merck KGaA Germany, has successfully launched initiatives like the pan-African TV program, "Our Africa by Merck Foundation." This program, conceptualized and co-hosted by Dr. Rasha Kelej, features African fashion designers, singers, and experts discussing pressing issues to foster cultural shifts across the continent. It has resonated with audiences, airing on prime TV stations and shared on social media platforms, drawing millions of viewers.Beyond television, Merck Foundation collaborates with The First Ladies of Africa to present eight annual award s for media, fashion designers, filmmakers, and musicians. These awards, themed around breaking infertility stigma and promoting a healthy lifestyle, have recognized 175 talents from 25 countries, integrating them into the Art and Fashion with Purpose community. The winners, including individuals from nations like Botswana, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe, utilize their creativity and influence to initiate meaningful conversations on social issues.Moreover, Merck Foundation has collaborated with African artists to produce over 30 songs in multiple languages, addressing topics like infertility stigma and women's empowerment. The foundation has also launched nine children's storybooks and six awareness animation films across five languages, aiming to educate and inspire change at grassroots levels.The commitment of Dr. Rasha Kelej and Merck Foundation to harness the power of art and fashion as tools for awareness and education continues to impact communities, driving a cultural transformation and addressing critical health and social issues across Africa.
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