First Lady advocates for stronger healthcare and social equity initiatives at Merck Foundation Conference

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed emphasized the importance of global collaboration in advancing healthcare, women’s empowerment, and education, while highlighting the significant strides the Maldives has achieved in healthcare and equity initiatives. She made this statement in her keynote address as the Guest of Honor at the High-Level First Ladies Panel, held at the 11th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Annual Conference.

The First Lady commended the Merck Foundation’s ‘More than a Mother’ campaign for its success in addressing infertility stigma globally. She noted that infertility remains a sensitive topic in the Maldives, with women shouldering much of the societal burden. She highlighted the current Administration’s initiative to make Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), such as IVF, more accessible by offering these treatments under the Aasandha public health insurance scheme.

In her address, the First Lady expressed her desire to introduce the ‘More than a Mother’ campaign to the Maldives, which will aid in shifting the societal perceptions on infertility and support affected individuals. She also highlighted other key issues, including cancer prevention and treatment initiatives, promoting education, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.

First Lady Madam Sajidha concluded the speech by expressing her desire to further explore and collaborate with the Merck Foundation to build a more healthier and equitable world.