Executive Mansion, Monrovia– The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia, Madam Kartumu Yarta Boakai, Champion of the More Than A Mother Campaign, departed the country early Monday to participate in the Merck Foundation’s 12th Annual Conference of African First Ladies, taking place from June 16–21, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Organized by the Merck Foundation, this high-level annual event convenes First Ladies from 22 African nations alongside government officials, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and media stakeholders.
The conference is dedicated to advancing social and economic development across Africa and Asia, with a special focus on expanding access to quality, equitable healthcare and strengthening healthcare systems in underserved communities.
As a featured speaker, First Lady Boakai will deliver a Keynote Address outlining her work
and accomplishments as Liberia’s First Lady, with particular emphasis on her leadership
of the More Than A Mother Campaign, which champions women’s health and
empowerment.
While at the conference, the First Lady will also engage in strategic sessions to spotlight
Liberia’s persistent challenges—particularly in maternal mortality, illiteracy, and poverty—
and seek collaborative support to address these critical issues.
Accompanying Her Excellency are:
- Dr. Adam M. Kyne, Senior Advisor and Head of Projects
- Mr. E-Timotheus Kama-Boakai, Executive Director of the KYB Foundation
The delegation also includes members of the First Lady’s protocol, security, and
communications teams.
Madam Boakai and delegation are expected to return to Liberia at the conclusion of the
conference on Friday, June 21, 2025.
