Applications open for Merck Foundation Film Awards in Africa

The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “More Than a Mother” invite African filmmakers, film students, and young creative talents to submit long or short films addressing critical social issues such as infertility stigma, girls’ education, women empowerment, child marriage, FGM, and gender-based violence (GBV). Each category offers USD 500, with submissions due by 30 September 2026 via YouTube link.

Overview of the Awards

The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 aim to harness storytelling and filmmaking to raise awareness on pressing social issues in African communities. The awards focus on topics aligned with the More Than a Mother campaign, highlighting women’s rights, education, and social justice.

Objectives

• Break infertility stigma and foster community understanding

• Promote girls’ education and empowerment

• Address and end child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM)

• Combat gender-based violence (GBV) at all levels

• Encourage creative African storytellers to educate and inspire change

Who Can Apply

• African nationals, including:

  • Experienced filmmakers

  • Students from film institutions

  • Emerging young talents

• Films may be long or short, in drama, documentary, or docudrama formats

• Languages accepted: English, French, Portuguese, Arabic

Award Details

• Prize: USD 500 per category

• Multiple winners may be selected depending on submission quality

Submission Guidelines

1. Submit films as YouTube links via email.

2. Use the subject line:
   Merck Foundation FILM Awards ‘More Than a Mother’ 2026

3. Include in the email:

   • Applicant’s name

   • Country

   • Institution name (if applicable)

   • Language of the film

   • Contact details

   • Brief description of the social issue addressed

4. Submission deadline: 30 September 2026

Selection Criteria

Films will be evaluated based on:

• Clarity and impact of the message on social issues

• Creativity and storytelling ability

• Community relevance and accessibility

• Alignment with More Than a Mother campaign objectives

Winner Announcement

• Winners will be personally notified via email

• Public announcement via press release, Merck Foundation website, and partners’ platforms

Tips for Applicants

• Focus on clear, relatable storytelling to engage communities

• Highlight specific social issues addressed in the film

• Use drama, documentary, or docudrama techniques effectively

• Ensure cultural sensitivity and accuracy in messaging

• Consider shareability and educational value for maximum impact

FAQ

1. Who is eligible to participate?
African filmmakers, students from film institutions, and young creative talents.

2. What types of films are accepted?
Drama, documentary, or docudrama formats, either long or short films.

3. What languages are allowed?
English, French, Portuguese, and Arabic.

4. How should films be submitted?
Via YouTube link emailed with the specified subject line and required details.

5. What is the prize per category?
USD 500, with the possibility of multiple winners.

6. What is the submission deadline?
30 September 2026.

7. How will winners be announced?
First via email, then publicly through press releases and Merck Foundation platforms.

Conclusion

The Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “More Than a Mother” offer African filmmakers a platform to create impactful films addressing key social issues. By combining creativity with advocacy, these films aim to sensitize communities, promote women’s empowerment, and drive social change across Africa.