Lusaka: Merck Foundation, in collaboration with African First Ladies, is marking 'World Cancer Day 2026' by advancing oncology care capacity through the provision of 258 cancer care scholarships spread across 34 countries. This initiative is part of the Cancer Access Program, which aims to address the shortage of oncologists in Africa.According to African Press Organization, the Merck Foundation, the philanthropic branch of Merck KGaA Germany, is making significant strides in training the first oncologists and cancer care teams in countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Burundi. The foundation has collaborated with African First Ladies to create awareness and educational materials, including the "Ray of Hope" children's storybook and animation film, available in three languages, to educate the public on cancer awareness.Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), Merck Foundation's CEO, emphasized the organization's commitment to transforming cancer care in Africa by addressing critical gaps such as late diag nosis and the shortage of trained specialists. The foundation aims to significantly increase the number of trained oncologists and develop multidisciplinary cancer care teams in Africa. Dr. Kelej highlighted the foundation's historical achievement in training the first oncologists in several African countries, which previously had no specialists in the field.The Merck Foundation has awarded over 2,500 scholarships to healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 underserved specialties. As part of their ongoing efforts, the foundation provides scholarships for various oncology sub-specialties, including Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, and Pediatrics Oncology, among others. These scholarships are offered in collaboration with reputed universities in the UK, such as the University of South Wales and Cardiff University.WHO data from 2022 indicates that Africa experiences approximately 1.1 million new cancer cases and up to 700,000 cancer deaths each year. The high mortality rates are attributed to late d iagnosis and limited access to care. The Merck Foundation's oncology scholarships are pivotal in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent and addressing these challenges.Dr. Judith Mkwaila, a Merck Foundation alumni from Malawi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pursue a Surgical Oncology fellowship in India, which enhanced her skills and enabled her to become the first female Chief Surgeon at Mzuzu Central Hospital. The foundation's efforts continue to expand access to high-quality cancer care in Africa.