BANJUL, The Gambia — Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women through various initiatives, including their “Our Africa” TV program, songs, children’s storybooks, and animation films.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, expressed the foundation’s deep commitment to raising awareness about the elimination of violence against women and girls. “We believe education is a cornerstone of women’s empowerment,” Kelej said. “It not only uplifts women but also plays a crucial role in eliminating all forms of violence against them.”
Merck Foundation’s pan-African TV program “Our Africa” has episodes dedicated to issues like stopping gender-based violence, ending female genital mutilation, women’s empowerment, and supporting girl education.
The foundation has also launched inspiring children’s storybooks, including “Not Who You Are” to raise awareness on gender-based violence and “More Than a Mother” to emphasize and strengthen family values of love and respect.
In addition, Merck Foundation has released several songs to support women’s empowerment and girl education, including “Like Them” sung by Kenneth, a famous singer from Uganda, and “Girl Can” sung by Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana, respectively.
“Violence against girls, women, and children is a grave and widespread violation of human rights,” Kelej said. “As we observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, let us come together to stop gender-based violence. By empowering women, supporting girl education, and championing women’s rights, we can pave the way for a future free from abuse and inequality.”
