Gaborone: Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African First Ladies, marked 'World Cancer Day 2026' by advancing oncology care capacity through the provision of 258 cancer care scholarships across 34 countries. The initiative, part of their Cancer Access Program, aims to address the shortage of oncologists and enhance cancer care on the continent. According to African Press Organization, Merck Foundation has been pivotal in transforming cancer care in Africa by addressing critical gaps such as late diagnosis and the lack of trained specialists. Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, explained the importance of these efforts, emphasizing how they have provided oncology scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries. This initiative has significantly increased the number of trained oncologists and established multidisciplinary cancer care teams in several countries where previously there were none. The scholarships are part of a broader commitment by Merck Foundati on to transform patient care in Africa, having provided over 2500 scholarships in 44 underserved specialities across 52 countries. The oncology scholarships offer one-year clinical training in various oncology sub-specialties and postgraduate diplomas from reputed UK universities. The 34 countries benefiting from these scholarships include Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, among others. WHO data from 2022 highlights the urgency of this initiative, revealing high cancer mortality rates in Africa due to late diagnosis and limited access to care. Dr. Rasha Kelej also emphasized the role of early detection in successful cancer treatment and prevention, introducing educational materials like the children's storybook and animation film "Ray of Hope" to raise awareness about childhood cancer. Dr. Judith Mkwaila, a Merck Foundation alumni from Malawi, shared her experience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to pursue a Surgical Oncology fellowship. Her training enabled her to establish a Gener al Surgical Clinic and become the first female Chief Surgeon at Mzuzu Central Hospital.