Merck Foundation and African First Ladies Launch 2025 Awards to Mark World Hypertension Day
In observance of World Hypertension Day 2025, Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in collaboration with African First Ladies, has launched its Annual Awards for Media, Fashion, Film, and Song. The initiative aims to raise awareness about hypertension, diabetes, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
The Foundation is working closely with Ministries of Health, medical societies, and academia through its “Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program” to expand access to preventive cardiovascular and diabetes care across Africa and beyond.
“We have provided over 860 scholarships to young doctors from 52 countries in key medical fields like cardiology, endocrinology, and diabetes care,” said Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation. “Our aim is to enhance healthcare capacity, not just in urban centers but also in underserved regions.”
To date, 2,270 scholarships have been awarded in 44 critical and underserved specialties.
As part of their educational outreach, the Foundation also released a storybook and animation film titled “Mark’s Pressure”, designed to teach children and youth the importance of healthy habits like reducing salt and sugar, eating well, exercising, and avoiding smoking.
🎥 Watch “Mark’s Pressure”: https://apo-opa.co/45pQuid
Their Pan-African TV program “Our Africa”, conceptualized and co-hosted by Dr. Kelej, features episodes dedicated to diabetes awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles.
📺 Watch episodes here:
Broadcast across various African national TV stations, the program is also available on social media platforms of Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej and Merck Foundation.
Merck Foundation, along with African First Ladies, invites entries from African creatives and professionals for the following awards, with a submission deadline of October 30, 2025:
- Media Recognition Awards 2025
Journalists are encouraged to submit impactful work promoting healthy lifestyles and awareness on diabetes and hypertension. - Film Awards 2025
Filmmakers and students are invited to submit documentaries, dramas, or docudramas with strong public health messages. - Fashion Awards 2025
Designers and fashion students can enter concepts or garments reflecting themes of health awareness. - Song Awards 2025
Musicians and singers can submit original compositions promoting wellness and the prevention of diabetes and hypertension.
All submissions for the awards must be sent via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com.
