The The 2026 Merck Film Awards on Diabetes and Hypertension in Africa These represent an extraordinary opportunity for filmmakers, directors and digital content creators in Cape Verde to put their creativity to work for public health. Organised by the Merck Foundation, this initiative aims to combat stigma and raise awareness within communities about two of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases on the African continent: diabetes and high blood pressure.
Visual Art as a Tool for Raising Awareness
In Cape Verde, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes pose growing challenges to the population’s well-being. Cinema and the audiovisual media have a profound emotional impact and are highly effective tools for conveying preventive messages, encouraging healthy lifestyles and combating misinformation.
This competition challenges local talent to create short films, animations or documentaries that depict stories of overcoming adversity, early diagnosis and the importance of family and community support.
Eligibility and Impact
The call for entries is open to professional filmmakers, multimedia students and audiovisual enthusiasts. Entries will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:
- Originality and Creativity: The ability to address medical topics in an accessible and compassionate manner.
- Technical Quality: Clarity of message, editing and audiovisual production.
- Social Impact: The potential of storytelling to inspire positive lifestyle changes.
As well as international recognition and cash prizes for the winners, taking part helps to build the capacity of Cape Verdean creators, promoting the integration of culture, art and social responsibility.
Important Information
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2026
- Submission link: Submit your project and view the full rules via the official portal at the link https://merck-foundation.com/Awards/merck-foundation-film-awards-diabetes–hypertension
