One of the main takeaways of Merck Foundation’s annual conference held in October 2019 in the capital city of Ghana, Accra was the release of a song that aims at empowering African girls and women in education and to motivate them to pursue their dreams and reach their potential.
The song which was a partnership between Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Ghana, Rebecca Akufo-Addo was composed and sang by Ghanaian musicians; Cwesi Oteng and Adina.
If you may recall, one of the strategies of Merck More Than a Mother campaign is to use songs of this nature to reach the public, to educate and empower them as well as break the stigma of infertility.
Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck More Than a Mother who was the brains behind the song has also created similar ones in other local languages in different countries.
Speaking to the media after the conference, Dr. Rasha Kelej said: “This song especially is a very special song as it communicates the key message of ‘Merck More Than a Mother’ that women are more than just mothers. They are integral and indispensable members of society. Through this song, we have tried to portray the different roles women are playing and can play in our society. Through this song, I want to give out a message to all the girls to be dedicated and step into frontiers that are male-dominated. You can be a Doctor, Engineer, Judge, Scientist, Pilot, Banker, Investor, Minister, and President. Believe in yourself, you can advance our Africa.”
Meanwhile, the over 1000 healthcare providers, policymakers and media from 60 countries who attended the conference welcomed the song and commended everyone behind its composition.
Adina, Cwesi Oteng's video below
About ‘Merck More Than A Mother’ campaign
‘Merck More Than A Mother’ initiative aims to empower infertile women through access to information, education and health and by changing mind-sets. This powerful initiative supports government in defining policies to enhance access to regulated, safe and effective fertility care. It defines interventions to break the stigma around infertile women and raises awareness about Infertility, prevention and management. In partnership with academia, ministries of health and international fertility societies, the initiative also provides medical education and training for healthcare providers and embryologists to build and advance fertility care capacity in Africa and developing countries.
‘Merck More Than A Mother’, has initiated a cultural shift to de-stigmatize infertility on all levels: by improving awareness, training the skills of local experts, building advocacy in cooperation with decision-makers and by supporting childless women in starting their own small business. It’s all about giving every woman the respect and the help she deserves to live a fulfilling life, with or without a child.
Don’t forget: Say No to Infertility Stigma NOW
Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]
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