First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama has been honoured by 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.
Dr Kelej said Mrs Mahama’s work through the Lordina Foundation had transformed the lives of thousands of vulnerable people across the country.
She said the foundation had supported healthcare delivery, girls’ education and financial empowerment programmes for women in deprived communities.
According to the Merck Foundation, the partnership with the Lordina Foundation has also helped provide medical scholarships for Ghanaian doctors to specialise in different areas of healthcare.
The organisation further praised Mrs Mahama for supporting campaigns aimed at promoting girls’ education and tackling child marriage, including the “More Than a Mother” campaign and the “Educating Linda” programme.
Mrs Mahama was also commended for backing the annual Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards, which encourage journalists across Africa and Asia to raise awareness about infertility stigma, maternal health and women’s empowerment.
Speaking after receiving the recognition, Mrs Mahama said the partnership had invested in the future of Ghana’s healthcare system through scholarships for 40 medical professionals who are now providing specialised care to patients.
She added that more than 110 people had also benefited from training in creative arts and information technology.
“My heart is truly grateful as I listen to the testimonies of the Merck Foundation Alumni,” she said.
“Their achievements offer hope that, with dedication, no one will be left behind.”
Mrs Mahama said the foundation remained committed to supporting vulnerable communities through healthcare, education and economic empowerment initiatives.
“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 said.
She also praised the collaboration between the two organisations and pledged her continued support for the partnership.
Mrs Mahama said the programme was helping to build future leaders and strengthen healthcare delivery in Ghana through education, training and community support initiatives.
