Applications Open For The Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships
Applications are now Open For The Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships. Launched in 2011, the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships were created to nurture and guide Africa’s future trailblazers in governance and development. Each year, three exceptional Fellows are selected to work at the executive offices of either the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan, the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa, or the International Trade Centre (ITC) in Geneva.
The programme runs for 12 months, during which Fellows receive a stipend of $100,000. Beyond financial support, the fellowship provides hands-on exposure to high-level decision-making and policy formulation, while strengthening both technical expertise and leadership capabilities. A unique highlight of the programme is the opportunity for Fellows to be directly mentored by the heads of the host organisations, offering invaluable insights into leadership at the highest levels.
Lifelong Impact and Networks
Graduates of the fellowship don’t just complete the programme and move on; they join the Now Generation Network (NGN), a dynamic community of young African professionals committed to driving change across the continent. Through NGN, Fellows continue to apply their expertise, exchange ideas, and contribute to Africa’s progress long after their fellowship year ends.
By combining mentorship, skill development, and continental networks, the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships remain a powerful catalyst for cultivating visionary African leaders who can shape the continent’s future.
Application Process for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships
Applications for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are now open. Interested candidates can find full application details and submission guidelines through the following links:
- African Development Bank (AfDB)
- International Trade Centre (ITC)
- United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
The fellowship programme is offered annually to young professionals, mid-career leaders, and emerging executives from Africa who possess relevant work experience and hold a master’s degree.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Have at least seven years of relevant professional experience
- Hold a Master’s degree from a recognized institution
- Be under 40 years old, or under 45 for women with children
- Meet any additional requirements specified by the host organization
This programme provides a unique opportunity for ambitious African professionals to gain hands-on leadership experience while contributing to continental development initiatives.
