Nairobi: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, alongside First Ladies from Africa and Asia, commemorated World Hypertension Day 2026 by launching a significant initiative aimed at enhancing healthcare capacity in 52 countries. This initiative, in partnership with various Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and Academia, is set to provide 997 specialized scholarships in Cardiovascular Preventive, Cardiology, Diabetes Care, and Endocrinology. According to African Press Organization, the Merck Foundation, the philanthropic branch of Merck KGaA Germany, marks this occasion by expanding educational opportunities for young healthcare providers. The scholarships include One-Year Online PG Diplomas, Two-Year Online Masters Degrees, and Onsite Fellowship Programs in key medical fields, aiming to improve access to quality care in underserved regions. A notable feature of these scholarships is their reach beyond capital cities, ensuring that healthcare capacity improves nationwide. Since its inception, Merck Foundation has awarded over 2600 scholarships in 44 critical medical specialties. Dr. Hazel W. Kariuki, a scholarship recipient from Kenya, shared her transformative experience, highlighting the program's role in enhancing her clinical skills and patient management practices in cardiovascular and diabetes care. The initiative coincides with the World Health Organization's data indicating the African region's high prevalence of hypertension. To further community awareness, Merck Foundation launched children's storybooks and animation films to encourage healthy lifestyles, emphasizing the prevention of hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, the Merck Foundation's Pan African TV program "Our Africa," created by Dr. Kelej, aims to raise awareness about health issues and promote healthy living. The program is broadcasted across several African countries and available on various social media platforms. In collaboration with African First Ladies, the Merck Foundation also announced annual awards for media, fil mmakers, fashion designers, and musicians to promote healthy lifestyles and awareness of diabetes and hypertension. The submission deadline for these awards is set for October 30, 2026, highlighting the foundation's ongoing commitment to public health education.