Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, Congratulates all the winners.
I am extremely happy to announce the winners of our Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies. Big congratulations to our winners! I appreciate the efforts put in by the young talents across Africa in their films, through which they have beautifully conveyed important messages about supporting girls’ education and stopping GBV.
The theme of the “More Than a Mother” Film Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and/or Women Empowerment at all levels. The theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Film Awards was to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.
I strongly believe that all forms of art, including filmmaking, can play a significant role in bringing about a culture shift in society and the world. Our aim is to utilize this medium to encourage promising filmmakers and new talents across the continent to be the champions of social and health issues in their communities.
Here is the list of Merck Foundation FILM Awards “More Than a Mother” 2023 Winners:
First Position:
- Tsi Conrad, CAMEROON
Film Name: WAIN WI (About Supporting Girls’ Education)
Link to watch Film:
Second Position:
2. Habila Ibrahim Abel, NIGERIA
Film Name: CAGED (About GBV)
Link to watch Film:
2. Merck Foundation FILM Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”
Theme for the awards: Promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Who can apply: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages on the theme.
Categories: English, French, Portuguese And Local Languages
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
I extend a hearty welcome to our winners and all filmmakers who are part of the “Art with Purpose” initiative, because I believe that art, including filmmaking, has the power to change African culture and increase awareness.
Kind Regards,
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej,
CEO of Merck Foundation
President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign
