(MENAFN- News.Africa-Wire) BANJUL, The Gambia, November 6, 2025/ -- Merck Foundation (), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, released a new children’s storybook and its animation film adaptation titled Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeãia, Séo Toíé & Príncipe and Senegal, who are also the Ambass“dors of “Merck Foundation More Th”n a Mother”, during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting. The MFFLI Committee Meeting was organized as part of the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, which took place in The Gambia.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “I am very proud to release today our new childr’n’s storybook and animation film on cancer awareness, in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies.

While Childhood cancer is one of the most difficult journeys, not only for young patients but also for their families and communities. Yet, with early detection and timely treatment, there is a good chance of recovery and the possibility of a long and healthier future as majority of Pediatric cancer are treatable. Therefore, I made sure that providing scholarships of cancer care for African healthcare providers is a main part of our strategy. Not only this but also to focus on Pediatric oncology training as much as we ”a .”

“ “Our st“rybook, “”ay of Hope” highlights this objective via sharing the journey of a young girl named Hope, who faces cancer with courage, resilience, and, above all, hope. The story also raises awareness about the importance of having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs which you will know about when you read this storybook. These signs should never be ignored, as early detection”saves lives,” she added.

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