In a significant move to amplify the voices of women struggling with infertility and to break the stigma surrounding childlessness, Botswana’s First Lady Kaone Boko has been officially appointed as the new ambassador of the Merck Foundation’s “More Than a Mother” campaign.
The appointment marks a major milestone for the initiative, which has been working across Africa and beyond to shift cultural perceptions and empower women through education, awareness, and access to fertility care. First Lady Kaone Boko joins a growing network of influential women leaders who are partnering with the Merck Foundation to advocate for gender equality, reproductive health rights, and support for women facing infertility.
During the official announcement, First Lady Kaone Boko expressed her gratitude and affirmed her commitment to the campaign’s mission. She emphasized the importance of inclusive narratives around womanhood and pledged to use her platform to promote dignity and support for women regardless of their reproductive status. “I am honored to join the Merck Foundation in this powerful and much-needed campaign. Every woman deserves to be respected, supported, and given access to healthcare—regardless of whether or not she is a mother. Together, we will advocate for change and build a more compassionate and informed society,” she said.
As ambassador, she will collaborate with the Merck Foundation to introduce local programs in Botswana that aim to increase access to fertility care and reduce social stigma. These efforts will include training medical professionals in fertility and embryology, supporting public education campaigns, and encouraging open conversations about infertility and gender norms.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of the Merck Foundation, welcomed the appointment, praising First Lady Boko for her dedication to women’s empowerment and healthcare. “Her Excellency Kaone Boko brings passion, empathy, and leadership to the table. We are confident that her voice will inspire lasting change in Botswana and set an example across the region,” she said.
First Lady Boko’s new role signals Botswana’s commitment to tackling the challenges faced by women living with infertility. Her involvement in the “More Than a Mother” campaign is expected to contribute to reshaping public perceptions and fostering greater acceptance and support for all women.
