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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) shares the partnership journey with Ghana First Lady 2018 to 2023

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3 years ago

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Merck Foundation

Together with Ghana First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 125 scholarships to local doctors in Ghana in many critical and underserved specialties

ACCRA, Ghana, June 23, 2023/APO Group/ — 

Merck Foundation (Merck-Foundation.com) CEO and Ghana First Lady met other 12 African First Ladies during 9th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2022 to discuss their strategy and announce their impact report and call for action to build healthcare capacity and empower women & girls in education in the country. ; Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape in public sector with Ghana First Lady and other partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond. Watch the partnership journey: https://apo-opa.info/44jpIEp; Watch the overview of the 2-day Hybrid 9th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2022 here: https://apo-opa.info/3YHgHSf

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, recently conducted their annual conference, the 9th Edition of “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”. The conference was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, and H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with African First Ladies of Botswana, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, The Gambia, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Angola and Central Africa.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej emphasized, “Our long-term partnership with my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” started in 2018 and we have achieved a lot in a very short time since then.

We had a long meeting during 9th edition of our Luminary to discuss our joint programs and strategy and report its impact. Together we have transformed the patientcare landscape of Ghana by providing more than 125 scholarships to young Ghanian doctors in the fields of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Respiratory, Acute Medicine, Sexual and Reproductive medicine, Embryology, Respiratory, Critical care, Psychiatry, General Surgery, Dermatology, Emergency and Resuscitation Medicine, Gastroenterology, Neuroimaging for Research, Pain Management, Rheumatology, and Neonatal Medicine .,this a huge milestone and revolution in patient care across Ghana.”

H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” said, “I truly appreciate and value our partnership with Merck Foundation and I am proud of our achievements together.

As the Ambassador of “More Than a Mother”, I have been working closely with Merck Foundation to empower women in general and infertile women in specific, not only through creating a culture shift but by also making the fertility, sexual and reproductive care available for them and their husbands whenever they need it, nationwide through the graduates of fertility speciality, embryology training and sexual and reproductive care one year diploma and two year master degree. I am also happy that together we have been able to provide more than 125 scholarships of to our young Ghanian doctors in many fields that are very critical to our country which I consider a great milestone”.

Watch partnership journey of Merck Foundation with Ghana First Lady: https://apo-opa.info/44jpIEp

Watch the video of The First Lady of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” during the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2022 here: https://apo-opa.info/3PoGm15  

On day 2 of the Luminary, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was also conducted between The First Ladies and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO. During the MFFLI committee meeting, a reading session of Children’s storybooks created by Merck Foundation, ‘Jackline’s Rescue’ – to focus on the importance of Girl Education and highlight the immoral practices of society including child marriage & dowry system; and ‘A Ride Into The Future’ – to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education, was also held.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.info/3T9pRph  

During the Luminary, a meeting between The First Lady of Ghana and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej was also held to discuss the impact of on-going programs and define strategies to further build healthcare and media capacity in Ghana to improve patient care and raise awareness about wide range of social and health issues in the country.

Watch video of the meeting between Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej and Ghana First Lady, H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO: https://apo-opa.info/44c7lkw  

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.info/44izzKD

Together with Ghana First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 125 scholarships to local doctors in Ghana in many critical and underserved specialties.

Our vision is that everyone can lead healthy and happy life

  • Out of which 59 scholarships have been provided to doctors for Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, Obesity and Weight Management courses, as a part of their Nationwide Diabetes Blue Points Program.
  • Moreover, 6 scholarships have been provided for the Oncology Fellowship and Master Program.
  • Merck Foundation has also provided 30 scholarships for Fertility Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine and Women’s Health. This is a huge number that will advance women’s health in the country.
  • 30 more scholarships have been provided for various critical and underserved specialties like Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Critical care, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Gastroenterology, Pain Management and many more.

“Our vision is that everyone can lead healthy and happy life. For 10 years this has been true in our mission to build healthcare capacity, transform patient care landscape, break infertility stigma, empower women, and support girl education. Through our partnership with First Lady of Ghana, we can impact the lives of people in the most disadvantaged communities in Ghana and beyond, leading them to a better future”, said Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Ghana for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Ghana, Merck Foundation has also launched seven children’s storybooks, “Kofi’s story”, ‘Educating Aku”, “Make the Right Choice”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”. 30,000 copies of the storybooks have been distributed to school students of Ghana; 20,000 more copies will also be distributed soon. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, coronavirus awareness, stopping GBV and diabetes awareness.

Merck Foundation in partnership with Ghana First Lady had also conducted their online Health Media Training to emphasize on the critical role of media to create a culture shift, to break the silence, and be the voice of the voiceless to raise awareness on sensitive social and health issues. This important training session was attended by many of over 100 Ghanaian journalists.

The 9th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2022 was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation (https://apo-opa.info/3Ykd3hH) and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (https://apo-opa.info/3SfA0AF).

Link to the Facebook live steam of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary & African First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.info/3J96Kay

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 1580 + Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 50 Countries in 39 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 2200 + Media Persons from more than 50 countries trained to better raise Awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards Launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 1000+ Girls from 15 African countries supported through scholarships or school items, annually.

• 9 Social Media Channels with more than 5 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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Sheraton Nouakchott marks the entry of Marriott International in Mauritania

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April 10, 2026

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Nouakchott

As Mauritania’s cultural and economic heart, Nouakchott offers visitors a glimpse into the serene beauty and rich heritage that define this remarkable Northwest African nation

We are proud to have brought Marriott International to Mauritania with the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott, the first internationally operated and branded hotel in the country

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania, April 10, 2026/APO Group/ –Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s (www.Marriott.com) portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, recently celebrated the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott Hotel (https://apo-opa.co/4t3YGO4), marking the entry of Marriott International into a new territory, Mauritania. Since opening its doors, Sheraton Nouakchott has, positioned itself as a new hub for business, events and leisure in the Mauritanian capital.

 

Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania, is a coastal city where tradition and modernity meet. Nestled between the vast Sahara and the Atlantic Ocean, it serves as a gateway to the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes, from golden dunes and tranquil oases to rugged coastlines and untouched desert plains. As Mauritania’s cultural and economic heart, Nouakchott offers visitors a glimpse into the serene beauty and rich heritage that define this remarkable Northwest African nation.

Ideally located near iconic landmarks such as the Marché Capitale and the National Museum of Mauritania, as well as Nouakchott’s beaches and fishing port — and just a short distance from the desert — Sheraton Nouakchott offers an ideal base from which to discover the destination.

“We are proud to have brought Marriott International to Mauritania with the opening of Sheraton Nouakchott, the first internationally operated and branded hotel in the country. Since welcoming our first guests, the hotel has quickly established itself as a destination for both travellers and the local community. This milestone underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences in emerging markets, while celebrating the culture and character of each destination,” said Sandra Schulze‑Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.

Local design inspiration

Traditional crafts, from wood carving to metalwork, are woven throughout the hotel’s materials and furnishings, creating spaces that feel both rooted and refined. Every detail tells a story of local artistry, heritage and place, offering guests an immersive experience inspired by Mauritania’s cultural and natural beauty.

Inspired by the legendary landmarks along the Trans‑Saharan trade route, the hotel’s design blends regional heritage with contemporary elegance. The circular ceiling of Feast restaurant draws inspiration from the Richat Structure, also known as the Eye of Africa. Earthy tones and organic materials reference the dramatic landscapes of the Adrar Mountains, while patterns inspired by Chinguetti and Oualata are reinterpreted throughout guest rooms, public spaces and Bene restaurant.

Meeting spaces echo the stone architecture of Tichitt, one of West Africa’s oldest towns and a historic caravan hub.

Guest rooms and suites with local charm

Sheraton Nouakchott features 200 spacious guest rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites, combining contemporary comfort with subtle local touches. All rooms are equipped with the latest technology and Sheraton signature amenities, including the iconic Sheraton Sleep Experience.

The Sheraton Club offers Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and Club guests an elevated, all‑day experience, with curated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity and a private environment designed for both productivity and relaxation.

Local flavours meet international influence

The hotel features two restaurants, a Lobby Bar and a Pool Bar. Feast, the all‑day dining restaurant, serves locally inspired and international dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Bene offers an immersive Italian dining experience in a warm, inviting setting. The Lobby Bar provides a relaxed meeting point from morning coffee to evening gatherings, while the Pool Bar offers refreshing drinks and light bites by the outdoor pool.

 

Facilities offering a resort feel in the heart of the city

Despite its central urban location, Sheraton Nouakchott delivers a resort‑like atmosphere, centred around an expansive outdoor pool. Guests can maintain their fitness routines in the fully equipped fitness centre — featuring separate floors for women and men, hammam and sauna — or enjoy the outdoor tennis court. The Sheraton Spa features three treatment rooms, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration or meetings.

Meetings & events curated to perfection

Sheraton Nouakchott offers more than 2,600 square metres of flexible Meetings & Events space, including a Grand Ballroom, a Ballroom and four additional meeting rooms. A signature Sheraton Community Table sits at the heart of the hotel, providing a welcoming space for informal meetings, remote work and collaboration. A dedicated events team ensures seamless delivery from concept to execution.

Gatherings by Sheraton

In line with Sheraton’s global community‑centred approach, Sheraton Nouakchott hosts Gatherings by Sheraton, curated weekly experiences designed around enrichment, renewal and local stories. Guests and locals can take part in Mauritanian mixology sessions using local mint tea and fruits, or storytelling evenings inspired by Saharan traditions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Supports Perenco Partnership to Advance Industry 4.0 Skills in Central Africa

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7 hours ago

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April 10, 2026

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African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber welcomes Perenco Cameroon and Perenco Gabon’s partnership with UCAC-ICAM to launch an Industry 4.0 lab, advancing local skills development and strengthening Africa’s industrial future

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 9, 2026/APO Group/ –A new partnership between Perenco Cameroon, Perenco Gabon and the UCAC-ICAM Institute in Douala to establish an Industry 4.0 laboratory marks a significant step toward aligning academic training with the evolving needs of the energy and industrial sectors. The facility will give students access to advanced automation, digital simulation and smart production technologies, helping close the gap between academic learning and the practical, industry-ready skills required across Central Africa’s industrial landscape.

 

As the voice of Africa’s energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes the initiative as a scalable model for local content development. By equipping students with Industry 4.0 capabilities, the laboratory directly supports the Chamber’s mandate to ensure greater in-country value creation and workforce participation across Africa’s energy value chain. The initiative also addresses critical skills shortages, enabling operators to increasingly rely on locally trained talent.

 

Developing local skills is fundamental to building a competitive and sustainable energy sector in Africa

The partnership underscores Perenco’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and capacity building in Cameroon and Gabon. Designed as a mini-factory, the UCAC-ICAM laboratory enables students to engage with real-world industrial tools and processes. This hands-on approach will support the development of engineers and technicians capable of contributing to key projects, including operations in the Rio del Rey Basin and infrastructure developments such as the Cap Lopez LNG terminal in Gabon.

 

Students across multiple disciplines will benefit from hands-on exposure to the lab’s advanced technologies. General Engineering students will train using robotic systems and virtual reality simulations, while Computer Science Engineering students will focus on industrial IoT and smart technologies. Process Engineering students will gain experience in automated production systems, and Petroleum program students will develop expertise in energy systems and instrumentation control. Graduates from UCAC-ICAM are being actively recruited by leading companies operating in Douala, reflecting growing demand for locally trained, industry-ready talent.

“Developing local skills is fundamental to building a competitive and sustainable energy sector in Africa,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “This partnership demonstrates how industry and academia can work together to create a highly skilled workforce that will drive Africa’s industrialization and energy future. It is exactly the type of initiative needed to ensure Africans play a leading role in developing the continent’s resources.”

The UCAC-ICAM laboratory represents a strategic investment in Africa’s industrial and energy future. By strengthening local capacity, advancing technology adoption and supporting independent operators, the initiative aligns with the AEC’s broader vision of a self-sufficient and globally competitive African energy sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Securing the bridge between legacy and smart

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7 hours ago

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April 10, 2026

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DLMS

STS Association and DLMS User Association sign landmark Liaison Agreement to advance interoperable, secure and future-ready metering systems

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 9, 2026/APO Group/ –The recent Liaison Agreement between the STS Association and the DLMS User Association marks a pivotal step in the evolution of interoperable, secure and future-ready metering systems. By aligning STS token technology with the widely adopted DLMS/COSEM framework, this collaboration is set to bridge the gap between legacy infrastructure and next-generation smart metering. The partnership reflects a shared vision to enhance interoperability, strengthen smart prepayment integration, and unlock greater value across the global metering ecosystem.

 

STS Association, in partnership with ESI Africa (part of VUKA Group), and DLMS User Association, is hosting a free webinar on this topic:

Securing the bridge between legacy and smart

Thursday, 7 May 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4cfEUb5

What you will learn

Industry experts will unpack how this strategic alignment enables seamless integration between your trusted prepayment systems and advanced data exchange protocols. Attendees will gain insight into:

  • How STS tokens can be securely transported using DLMS/COSEM
  • The role of Generic Companion Profiles in enabling interoperability
  • How coordinated roadmaps will shape the future of token technology and smart metering
  • The expanding application of these standards beyond electricity into water, gas and time metering
  • Practical benefits for utilities, manufacturers and system integrators navigating the transition from legacy to smart environments

Introducing the Panel

Lance Hawkins-Dady – STSA Board Chairman

Franco Pucci – STSA Technical Consultant

Don Taylor – STSA Independent Director

Sergio Lazzarotto – DLMS User Association, President

Join STS Association and ESI Africa to explore how this landmark collaboration is securing the bridge between legacy systems and smart innovation. Discover how aligned standards can simplify integration, enhance security and future-proof your metering strategy.

Register now: https://apo-opa.co/4cfEUb5

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

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