Open call: Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025

The competition features two categories: the “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension” song contests. These awards invite musicians to raise awareness about critical issues such as the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension, breaking infertility stigma, supporting girls’ education, ending child marriage, and promoting women’s empowerment.

Who can apply
The contest is open to both established and emerging African singers and musical artists.

How to apply
Interested musicians can submit their entries now via email at submit@merck-foundation.com.

Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej, said: “I invite all singers, musicians, and young talents to contribute towards making a difference in society with their inspiring songs that carry strong and relevant messages about the critical issues we face on our continent. Be the voice of the voiceless, break the silence, and let’s join hands to create a cultural shift.”

Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 – “More Than a Mother”

• Theme: Submitted songs should address one or more social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls’ Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, and Women Empowerment.

NOTE: All singers and musical artists are invited to create and share a song that addresses one or more of the above issues.

Categories

• English 
• French
• Portuguese
• Local Languages

The submission deadline is 30 September 2025.

Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 – “Diabetes & Hypertension”

• Theme: Promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.
• All singers and musical artists are invited to create and share a song promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about the prevention and early detection of diabetes and hypertension.

Categories 

• English
• French
• Portuguese
•  Local languages

The submission deadline is 30 October 2025.