Welcoming delegates, policymakers, and her “sister First Ladies” from across Africa, Madam Bah-Barrow described the gathering as “a meeting of powerful partners united by a shared goal and more empowered future for our nations.”
“As we convene for the 12th edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, we gather not just as leaders, but as sisters, advocates, and champions of progress,” she said. “Together, we reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthening health systems, building the capacity of healthcare professionals, promoting responsible journalism, and supporting the next generation of African caregivers.”
The First Lady’s address celebrated the power of sisterhood, unity, and compassion among African First Ladies, noting that their collective influence extends far beyond symbolism.
“Sisterhood, in its truest sense, is rooted in love, support, and mutual respect,” she said. “We are not only symbolic figures, we are mothers, caregivers, and servants with a unique platform to uplift the voices of the vulnerable and marginalized, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
Madam Bah-Barrow reminded the audience that the pursuit of health is a human right and a moral obligation.
“When we talk about health, we are talking about the most fundamental human right; the right to life, dignity, and well-being,” she said. “Health is not merely the absence of disease, but the presence of opportunity - the chance for every individual to live a full, productive, and dignified life.”
She highlighted the significant role of the Merck Foundation partnership in transforming healthcare across The Gambia and Africa. Through specialised training and education, the Foundation has empowered hundreds of professionals to deliver quality medical care in critical areas.
In The Gambia alone, over 100 doctors have benefited from Merck Foundation scholarships in fields such as oncology, fertility and embryology, reproductive and respiratory care, acute medicine, infectious diseases, and pediatrics.
“Our collaboration with the Merck Foundation has played a pivotal role in advancing healthcare and building a stronger medical workforce for the future,” she noted. “However, we must continue to support our doctors, nurses, midwives, and technicians through continuous education and access to resources.”
Acknowledging the challenges of overburdened and under-resourced health workers, Madam Bah-Barrow commended philanthropic partnerships for helping raise disease awareness and improve health outcomes across Africa.
The First Lady reaffirmed her personal commitment to women’s health and empowerment, particularly in maternal and neonatal healthcare. She stressed that women’s well-being is central to national development and called for renewed investments in their education, leadership, and economic independence.
She also recognised the media’s crucial role in shaping public perception and behavior in the digital age.
“Journalists hold immense power to inform, educate, and inspire action but they must be well-equipped to do so ethically and accurately,” she said. “We have seen how misinformation can cost lives, especially during pandemics and outbreaks. That’s why I fully support initiatives that train journalists in responsible health reporting.”
In her closing remarks, Her Excellency Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow expressed heartfelt appreciation to her fellow First Ladies for gracing the event, to the Merck Foundation for selecting The Gambia as host country, and to the government and people of The Gambia for their hospitality and collaboration.
“Though we may be First Ladies, we are first and foremost compassionate people with a responsibility to act, to amplify the voices of those in need, and to give them hope for a better future,” she declared.
The First Lady urged continued cooperation among African nations to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union Agenda 2063, emphasising that true progress demands solidarity.
“The role of women in peace, development, and progress across Africa must be cherished and nurtured,” she concluded. “It is only by standing together for a common cause that we can truly make a difference.”
