Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, and African First Ladies have named 50 winners from 15 African countries in the 2025 Fashion, Song and Film Awards.
The awards were presented under two themes: “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes & Hypertension”. The first theme focused on raising awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, women’s empowerment, ending child marriage, ending FGM (female genital mutilation), and stopping GBV (gender-based violence) at all levels. The second theme promoted healthy lifestyles and awareness about prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension in African countries.
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) said:
“I am incredibly proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Merck Foundation Fashion, Song and Film Awards together with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’. I congratulate our 50 winners from 15 African countries. I am truly impressed by the quality and quantity of the entries we received this year. Our winners have creatively and effectively conveyed important social and health awareness messages through their work. I have always believed that fashion and art play a crucial role in raising awareness about health and sensitive social issues.”
2026 call for applications#
Merck Foundation also opened applications for the 2026 edition of the Fashion, Song and Film Awards under the same two themes, in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia.
“We invite the young talents to submit their creative work, carrying powerful messages that break the silence,” Kelej added.
Eligible categories under the ‘More Than a Mother’ theme include:
- Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: media representatives and media students from African countries may submit work on one or more of the listed social issues. Submitting multiple applications will increase the chances of winning the award.
- Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: African filmmakers, film students, or young talents may submit long or short films, including drama, documentary, or docudrama.
- Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: African fashion students and designers may submit designs addressing the same social issues.
Community awareness program#
As part of its Community Awareness Program, Merck Foundation has released more than 30 songs in English, French, Portuguese, and local languages. The songs address issues including breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, women’s empowerment, and diabetes awareness.
The foundation has also released a series of animation films in English, French, Portuguese, Swahili, and Spanish to address social and health issues.
The foundation’s CEO has also conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted “Our Africa by Merck Foundation,” a pan-African TV program designed to feature African fashion designers, singers, and experts from various fields. The program aims to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.
The TV program has been broadcast on prime TV stations in several countries. It is also available on the social media handles of Dr. Rasha Kelej and Merck Foundation.
