Dr Rasha Named Among 100 Most Influential Women
By Mackie M. Jalloh
Dr Rasha Kelej, a globally respected leader in public health and women’s empowerment, has been honoured as one of the 100 Most Influential Women of 2025 by New African (UK). This prestigious recognition places her alongside some of Africa’s most revered leaders—including the Presidents of Angola, South Africa, and Ghana—and acknowledges her remarkable contributions to healthcare systems, women’s empowerment, fertility advocacy, and girls’ education across the continent.
The New African list celebrates women whose actions, influence, and foresight are shaping Africa’s present and future. Dr Kelej’s inclusion on this elite roster is a testament to her unwavering dedication to transforming lives through sustainable, compassionate, and impactful programmes. Her work transcends borders, affecting millions of lives in Africa and beyond.
At the heart of Dr Kelej’s influence is her leadership of the Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany. Under her visionary guidance, the Foundation has spearheaded initiatives that have strengthened healthcare capacity in underserved regions, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Dr Kelej has championed the training and empowerment of healthcare professionals, enabling countries to build robust and resilient health systems capable of responding to pressing challenges—from maternal and newborn health to non-communicable diseases.
One of her most profound and impactful commitments has been her work on infertility stigma and care—a subject historically neglected in global health discourse. Recognising the profound emotional, social, and economic burden infertility places on women and families, Dr Kelej initiated multi-country programmes that provide training for fertility specialists, offer support for women living with infertility, and advocate for dignity, respect, and understanding in communities where stigma remains entrenched. Through awareness campaigns, clinical training, and partnerships with ministries of health, she has brought infertility out of the shadows and given women a voice, hope, and access to care that was once unavailable.
In addition to her work on infertility, Dr Kelej has been a tireless advocate for girls’ education and empowerment. She firmly believes that education is the cornerstone of opportunity, equity, and leadership for future generations. Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has funded scholarships, mentorship programmes, and community education initiatives that have enabled countless girls to stay in school—and to aspire, achieve, and lead. Her work reinforces the belief that when girls are educated and empowered, communities thrive, economies grow, and societies become more just and resilient.
Dr Kelej’s influence is not merely symbolic. Her approach exemplifies transformative leadership—strategic, compassionate, and rooted in partnership with governments, communities, and health professionals. Her ability to inspire collective action has led to enduring partnerships with ministries of health across African nations, catalysing policy reforms, enhancing service delivery, and creating platforms for sustained community engagement.
Being named among New African’s 100 Most Influential Women 2025 not only honours Dr Rasha Kelej’s past accomplishments but also highlights her continued relevance and leadership in shaping Africa’s trajectory. She stands as a role model for young women and girls, proving that visionary leadership combined with empathy and determination can drive systemic change.
As global health challenges evolve, Dr Kelej’s voice remains one of clarity, courage, and conviction. Her work continues to uplift the vulnerable, empower the marginalised, and bridge gaps in healthcare access and gender equality. In celebrating her achievements, Africa celebrates a daughter whose heart beats for progress, dignity, and opportunity for all.
