Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, has announced the winners of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, recognizing outstanding contributions from African researchers in the fields of women’s health and reproductive care. Five researchers from five African countries were honored under two categories: Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of MARS, commended the winners for their contributions to scientific research in Africa, particularly in areas where women researchers remain underrepresented. She reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to empowering young African scientists, especially women, by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
MARS 2024 Award Winners
Best African Women Researchers Awards
- Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza (South Africa) – First Position
Topic: Association Between Biochemical and Epigenetic Markers with Glycaemic Control and Neonatal Outcomes in Diabetic Pregnancies - Dr. Dorotheah Obiri (Ghana) – Second Position
Topic: Immune Dysregulation in Placental Malaria and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Best Young African Researchers Awards
- Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane (Democratic Republic of the Congo) – First Position
Topic: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection, and Tubal Factor Infertility in Bukavu, DRC - Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue (Gabon) – Second Position
Topic: Epidemiology of Helminthiases in Women of Reproductive Age Living in Lambaréné, Gabon - Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile (Ethiopia) – Second Position
Topic: Incidence of Neonatal Mortality and Factors Influencing Neonate Survival in Northern Ethiopia: A Prospective Cohort Study
As part of their recognition, the winners will be enrolled in research training at a prestigious institute in India. Additionally, the first-place winners in each category were invited to attend the 11th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Conference in Tanzania, with Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane successfully participating in the event.
Call for applications: MARS Awards 2025
Senator Kelej also announced the Call for Applications for the 2025 edition of MARS Awards, encouraging final-year African PhD students and young researchers to submit abstracts focusing on Women’s Health, Infertility, and Reproductive Health.
Application Details:
- Eligibility: Researchers based in African research institutes or universities (collaborations within and outside Africa are encouraged)
- Submission Deadline: June 30, 2025
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted online (Apply Here) or via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with a CV and research abstract.
Winning researchers will be eligible for research training in a prestigious institute in India, with top winners invited to attend the 12th Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Conference 2025.
Merck Foundation remains committed to advancing scientific research, healthcare capacity building, and the empowerment of women and youth in STEM across Africa.
