Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany has held a training for the health media in some selected countries. 

More than 1500 African and Latin American Journalists from more than 35 countries participated in the Merck Foundation Health Media Training.

The event held through a video conference on Thursday was preceeded by 8th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Inauguration & Africa’s First Ladies High Level Panel on Tuesday. 

‘Merck More than a Mother’ community awareness programme aimed at enlightening people about infertility. 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Merck Foundation,  Dr.Rasha Kelej expressed her outfits commitment  to conducting such important training, adding that the initiative was close to her heart.

According to her, this would empower the media to take the messages to the community and bring a change considering the important role of the media.

She added that by so doing, the stigma around infertility would be broken, and some preventive measures be highlighted. 

Dr.Kelej also encouraged the media to actively participate in the Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards 2021.

President of Fertility Society of Ghana, Dr.Edem Hiadzi made an elaborate presentation on causes of infertility  and prevention.

 As part of the presentation, he called for a holistic approach and government intervention in the provision of fertility services.

Dr.Wangiri Ndengwa a Gynaecologist and IVF Specialist said the problem of poor understanding of Fertility issues and financial challenges contribute mostly to infertility.

She said when there is no conception after six months of marriage, both couple must see a Fertility Specialist for early detection a d treatment adding that age is important when  it comes to issues of fertility. 

Samuel Lukhanda, President of Zambia Union of Journalists on his part said ignorance and misinformation on infertility issues lead to stigmatisation.

Against this backdrop, he called on the media to lead the awareness and advocacy campaign.

Other Specialists and broadcasters who spoke also threw more light on how the media could help in nipping stigma associated with infertility in the bud.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme