Launched in 2011 by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, the Fellowship is designed to identify, mentor, and capacitate Africa’s emerging leaders. The aim is to create a generation ready to address Africa’s complex challenges through leadership, policy, and research work at continental institutions.
In 2026, the Fellowship gives three outstanding Africans the chance to work at top multilateral institutions:
- AfDB (African Development Bank) in Abidjan,
- UNECA (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa) in Addis Ababa,
- ITC (International Trade Centre) in Geneva.
The Offer: What Fellows Receive
If selected, you’ll get:
- A 12-month placement at one of these prestigious institutions, working directly in the executive offices.
- A generous annual stipend of USD 100,000, allowing you to fully immerse without financial worry.
- Unique mentorship directly from the heads of host organisations—this means access to high-level decision makers and learnings not readily available elsewhere.
- Participation in the Now Generation Network (NGN) run by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, which connects you with other leaders, ensures continuity of learning, and encourages contribution to Africa’s public good.
Who Should Apply? Eligibility Criteria
Here’s who the Fellowship is aimed at:
Nationals of an African country.
- At least 7 years of relevant work experience.
- A Master’s degree.
- Under 40 years of age, or 45 for women with children.
Plus, there may be additional criteria depending on the host institution.
This is more than a line on the CV—it’s an opportunity to:
- Engage in policy design and research at a continental scale and with institutions that influence Africa’s development pathway.
- Build leadership capabilities in complex, high-stakes environments.
- Get exposure to different governance models, cross-border collaborations, and the mechanics of international institutions.
- Join a powerful network of peers and mentors, which can open many doors in the public, private or non-profit sectors.
Key Dates & How to Apply
- Deadline for applications: 20 November 2025.
- Applications are open now.
- The application process and further details (job profiles, responsibilities, host institution specifics) are available on the official websites of AfDB, UNECA, ITC, and the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
Who Should Go For It?
If you are an African professional who has:
- Already demonstrated leadership in your field (policy, public administration, development, international affairs, etc.),
- A strong track record in research, planning, implementation, or related technical work,
- Ambitions to take on greater responsibility, shape public policy, or contribute to institutional reform and governance, then this could be exactly the platform you need to make a bigger impact.
If you believe you have something to contribute and grow, don’t let this pass by. Apply, prepare thoroughly, and maybe next year you’ll be at the table helping shape Africa’s future.
Applications for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are now open. Details and how to apply can be found at the following links:
