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First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama has been honoured by the Merck Foundation for what the organisation described as her decade-long contribution to healthcare, education and women’s empowerment in Ghana.
The recognition was presented during the Merck Foundation Ghana Alumni Summit 2026 held at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City on Tuesday.
The award was jointly presented by Rasha Kelej and Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Kelej praised Mrs Mahama for the impact of the Lordina Foundation, saying its interventions had improved the lives of thousands of vulnerable people nationwide.
She noted that the foundation has supported healthcare delivery, girls’ education and women’s financial empowerment initiatives in underserved communities.
According to the Merck Foundation, its partnership with the Lordina Foundation has also facilitated medical scholarships for Ghanaian doctors to specialise in various healthcare fields.
The organisation further commended Mrs Mahama for supporting initiatives focused on girls’ education and the fight against child marriage, including the “More Than a Mother” campaign and the “Educating Linda” programme.
Mrs Mahama was additionally recognised for supporting the annual Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards, which encourage journalists across Africa and Asia to create awareness about infertility stigma, maternal health and women’s empowerment.
In her remarks after receiving the award, Mrs Mahama said the collaboration had contributed significantly to Ghana’s healthcare sector through scholarships awarded to 40 medical professionals who are now delivering specialised healthcare services.
She added that more than 110 individuals had also received training in creative arts and information technology through the initiative.
“My heart is truly grateful as I listen to the testimonies of the Merck Foundation Alumni,” she said, adding that their success stories demonstrate that no one should be left behind when opportunities are created.
Mrs Mahama reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through healthcare, education and economic empowerment programmes.
“Whether it is a grandmother in a village in need of healthcare, a young girl dreaming of a classroom, or a woman seeking financial independence, our mission is to serve their dream for a better life,” she stated.
She also applauded the strong partnership between the two organisations and pledged her continued support for initiatives aimed at developing future leaders and strengthening healthcare delivery in Ghana through education, training and community outreach programmes.
Source:Omanghana
