Banjul: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, held a significant meeting with H.E. Madam Angeline Ndayishimiye, First Lady of Burundi, during the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, to discuss their collaborative efforts in enhancing healthcare capacity and supporting girl education in Burundi. This event was held in partnership with the Government of The Gambia. According to African Press Organization, the conference saw participation from various African First Ladies, who served as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. Dr. Kelej expressed her satisfaction in working alongside the First Lady of Burundi, highlighting the achievements since their partnership began in 2020, including the provision of 55 scholarships for Burundian doctors across several medical specialties. These initiatives aim to strengthen healthcare capacity in the country. First Lady Angeline Ndayishimiye acknowledged the progress made through this partnership, emphasizing the establishment of Burundi's first di abetes and public IVF centers, facilitated by the training provided through Merck Foundation scholarships. The partnership also supports the "Educating Linda" program, which annually awards scholarships to 40 high-achieving but underprivileged girls to promote girl's education in Burundi. The conference featured a two-day event with keynote speeches from African First Ladies and a high-level ministerial panel discussion. The Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Committee meeting facilitated discussions on the impact of Merck Foundation programs and future strategies. Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Burundi have also launched nine children's storybooks to address social issues and conducted health media training to empower journalists in Burundi. The 12th Edition of the conference was streamed live on Merck Foundation's social media platforms, further amplifying its reach and impact.