Journalistic Recognition in Cape Verde: A Boost for Maternal and Child Health
The Merck Africa Foundation, through its "More than a Mother" initiative, is offering awards to recognise media professionals who excel in publicising crucial issues in the field of women's and children's health. These awards represent a valuable opportunity for Cape Verde, a country which, despite significant progress, continues to face challenges in the fight against maternal and infant mortality. By honouring journalistic work dedicated to these causes, the Merck Africa Foundation aims to value and encourage the local media to play an even more active role in raising public awareness and denouncing harmful practices.
Maternal and child health are areas of enormous importance for the socio-economic development of any nation. In Cape Verde, where social cohesion and sustainability depend on the well-being of every citizen, guaranteeing access to quality healthcare, education and information is fundamental. The Merck Africa Foundation's "More than a Mother" initiative recognises this premise and, through its awards, raises awareness of issues such as infertility, gender-based violence, female genital mutilation and the importance of a safe pregnancy.
Through reports, documentaries, opinion pieces and other forms of communication, Cape Verdean journalists have the ability to positively influence public perception of these challenges. The Merck Foundation awards offer a significant incentive for media professionals to dedicate themselves to deepening their knowledge of these complex issues, producing informative content and promoting public debate. This recognition not only raises the prestige of the award-winning journalists, but also helps to increase the visibility of the issues, encouraging the population to seek help and demand better health conditions.
When analysing the Cape Verdean context, it becomes clear that there is a need to raise awareness of the issues covered by the awards. Although progress has been made, the persistence of certain problems, coupled with the difficulty of accessing information in some communities, demonstrates the importance of strong and dedicated media. For example, infertility, which is often associated with social stigma, can be tackled more easily with the support of journalistic information that demystifies the condition and encourages people to seek help. Gender-based violence, a scourge that cuts across society, can be combated more effectively through journalistic reporting and the promotion of a debate that leads to a change in mentalities.
The participation of Cape Verdean journalists in the Merck Africa Foundation's "More than a Mother" awards is therefore crucial. By preparing applications with quality work that rigorously and sensitively addresses aspects of maternal and child health, it is possible not only to gain international recognition, but also to strengthen the national media, fostering public debate and contributing to the country's progress. This opportunity is vital if Cape Verde is to achieve and surpass the targets set, guaranteeing a healthier and more prosperous future for all women and children.
Deadline and enrolment:
Applications for these awards usually have a set deadline that varies with each edition. For detailed information on the eligibility criteria, deadlines and how to apply, visit the official Merck Africa Foundation website and see the latest updates.
Deadline: 30-9-2025
