Merck Foundation, in collaboration with Africa’s First Ladies, recently announced the winners of the 2023 FASHION Awards “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension.” The awards aim to address critical social issues such as Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Women Empowerment, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices to raise awareness about prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension in Africa.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More than a Mother” campaign, expressed her pride in the 16 talented winners who showcased their exceptional skills and conveyed impactful messages through their innovative designs. The African First Ladies, who are also Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother,” joined in celebrating the winners and welcoming them to the ‘Fashion & Art with Purpose’ community.
The “More Than a Mother” Fashion Awards focused on raising awareness about social issues, while the “Diabetes & Hypertension” FASHION Awards aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension across Africa.
The winners of the “More Than a Mother” 2023 Awards include Christianah Adebimpe Dare from Nigeria, Johannes Medard Tairo from Tanzania, Favour Olayinka Okunola from Nigeria, Musema Robert from Uganda, Ofoegbu Ngozi Anita from Nigeria, Oluwakorede Adeyinka Adeyanju from Nigeria, Esther Gathoni & Stephene Baraka from Kenya, and Lynn Chipendo Musema Robert from Zimbabwe.
On the other hand, the winners of the “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2023 Awards are Linda Ngwira from Zambia, Ofillia Nzengu from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kaluba Ngulube from Zambia, Ewubare Faith from Nigeria, Malanga Mukanzo from Zambia, Kolawole Feranmi from Nigeria, and Solace Akos Sakah from Ghana.
In addition to the awards, Merck Foundation CEO conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted “Our Africa by Merck Foundation,” a pan-African TV program featuring African Fashion Designers, Singers, and experts to raise awareness and create a cultural shift across Africa. The program has garnered viewership on prime TV stations in several countries and is also available on social media platforms.
Looking ahead, applications for the Merck Foundation FASHION Awards 2025 are now open for African Fashion Designers and Students under the themes of “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes & Hypertension.” The deadline for submission is 30th September 2025 for the “More Than a Mother” Awards and 30th October 2025 for the “Diabetes & Hypertension” Awards.
To apply, African Fashion Designers and Students can share their original sketches via email at submit@merck-foundation.com, mentioning the specific award category in the subject line along with their name, institution, country, and contact details.
The Merck Foundation remains dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for underserved communities in collaboration with various partners, including governments, while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all its endeavors. Follow their social media platforms for updates and join the conversation to support their mission of elevating humanity and enhancing well-being.
