Deadline: 30-Oct-2026
The Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 invite African singers and musical artists to submit original songs that promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension prevention and early detection. Songs can be in English, French, Portuguese, or Arabic, with each category offering a $500 USD prize. Submissions are due by 30 October 2026.
Overview of the Awards
The Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 aim to recognize African musical talent that creates songs delivering impactful, educational, and community-oriented messages about healthy living and disease prevention.
Objectives
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Promote healthy lifestyle practices
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Raise awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension prevention and early detection
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Support the Merck Foundation Capacity Advancement and Diabetes Blue Point Program
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Encourage creative musical engagement across Africa
Who Can Apply
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African singers and musical artists
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Songs may be submitted in English, French, Portuguese, or Arabic
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Works must focus on healthy lifestyle promotion and disease awareness
Award Details
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Prize: USD 500 per category
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Multiple winners may be selected depending on the quality of submissions
Submission Guidelines
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Submit your entry via email with the subject line:
Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension” -
Include the following in your email:
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Applicant’s name
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Country
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Contact details
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Lyrics of the song
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Ensure submissions are sent by 30 October 2026.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will evaluate entries based on:
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Lyrics and composition
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Effectiveness in raising awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension
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Creativity and community engagement potential
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Overall impact and clarity of messaging
Winner Announcement
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Winners will be personally notified via email
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Public announcement through press releases, Merck Foundation website, and partner social media platforms
Tips for Applicants
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Focus on clear, memorable lyrics that communicate healthy lifestyle messages.
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Ensure the song is engaging and culturally relevant.
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Consider the audience impact, making it easy to share and understand.
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Align entries with Merck Foundation programs for maximum relevance.
FAQ
1. Who is eligible to apply?
African singers and musical artists across the continent.
2. What languages are accepted?
English, French, Portuguese, or Arabic.
3. What is the prize?
USD 500 per category, with the possibility of multiple winners per category.
4. How should entries be submitted?
Via email with the specified subject line, including name, country, contact details, and lyrics.
5. What is the submission deadline?
30 October 2026.
6. How are entries evaluated?
Based on lyrics, composition, clarity, creativity, and effectiveness in spreading awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension.
7. How will winners be notified?
First via email, followed by a public announcement on the Merck Foundation website and social media.
Conclusion
The Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 provide African singers and musical artists a platform to create meaningful and educational music promoting healthy lifestyles and increasing awareness about Diabetes and Hypertension. By combining creativity with public health messaging, the awards aim to engage communities, inspire action, and enhance disease prevention efforts across Africa.
For more information, visit Merck Foundation.