In the quiet corridors of clinics and the bustling boardrooms of ministries across Africa, a new kind of leader is emerging. They are the ones who stood on the front lines when the world went still during the pandemic. They are the ones currently navigating the complexities of climate-driven disease and regional health security.
They are the guardians of our collective well-being, and now, the Africa CDC is looking for the next 20 visionaries to join their ranks.
The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership (Cohort 6) has officially opened its doors. This is not just a training program; it is a summons to the highest level of service for the African continent.
The Legacy of a Giant
Named in honor of the late Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General and a tireless advocate for global equity, this fellowship embodies his belief that "no one is born a good citizen... it is a process that continues throughout life."
For African health professionals, this process involves moving beyond local impact to continental influence. The Africa CDC, through this program, is building a "brain trust", a sophisticated network of leaders capable of directing the future of public health under the New Public Health Order.
The Fellowship: A Forge for Narrative & Strategy
Being a Kofi Annan Fellow means entering a rigorous, high-stakes environment where expertise meets empathy. The 12-month program is designed to transform "Public Health Experts" into "Public Health Leaders."
What does the journey look like?
Advanced Leadership Coaching: Moving beyond clinical data to master the art of negotiation, diplomacy, and strategic communication.
Mentorship from the Titans: Fellows are paired with seasoned health leaders and former heads of state who have navigated the continent's most pressing crises.
The Continental Perspective: Through residential placements and virtual learning, fellows move beyond their national borders to understand the healthy interconnectedness of all 55 African Union member states.
A Lifetime Network: You aren't just joining a class; you are joining an elite alumni body that is actively shaping policy at the highest levels of the African Union.
Who is the "Guardian" the Africa CDC is Searching For?
This fellowship is highly competitive and seeks the "best of the best." The ideal candidate for Cohort 6 is:
An Experienced Professional: Someone with at least 10 years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
A Visionary: A citizen of an African Union Member State with a postgraduate degree in a relevant field.
A Catalyst: Someone with a proven track record of driving change in public health, whether in the public, private, or NGO sector.
The Opportunity: Fully Funded Excellence
To ensure that talent is the only barrier to entry, the fellowship is fully funded. This includes all travel, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, allowing the laureates to dedicate themselves entirely to the transformation of African health.
Application Deadline: January 12, 2026
Location: Mix of virtual and residential (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Apply Now: Visit the African Union Jobs portal to take your place in history.
Africa’s health security cannot be imported. It must be led, designed, and defended by Africans. Are you ready to lead the charge?