Application Deadline: 20 January 2027
Applications are now open for the 2027 International Journalists‘ Programmes (IJP) Southern-African Journalists’ Fellowship Programme. The Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme is a multiyear effort to foster a deeper understanding between Germany and Africa as a whole. It has been offered in response to concerns about an increasing political and cultural detachment between Africa and Europe. The bursary is intended to enable young journalists to gain valuable insights into the political, economical, cultural and social fabric of the host country.
The bursary is named in honour of former Federal President Horst Köhler, whose exemplary dedication to German-African relations has left a lasting impact. President Horst Köhler was a passionate advocate for Africa, both during his time in office and beyond, championing a cultural shift in Africa policy that acknowledged historical transformations and the continent’s global significance.
Every year, the International Journalists‘ Programmes (IJP) offer a bursary to up to five young Southern African journalists (SADC Member States: Angola,
Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, United Republic of
Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe + Kenya) and up to five young German journalists.
For two months, the Southern African delegates will have the opportunity to work in Germany. They will be integrated into the day‐to‐day operations of their host newsroom while researching stories for their home media. All candidates must have a strong command of the English language. German language skills are an advantage but not mandatory.
The Southern African Bursary is a multi-year initiative designed to foster mutual understanding and strengthen relations between Africa and Germany. It enables young journalists to gain valuable insights into the political, economic, cultural, and social fabric of the host country.
The Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme begins with an introductory conference for all delegates in Berlin, allowing participants from
Southern Africa to familiarize themselves with the host country. Upon their return, fellows are required to submit a multi-page report on their experience as well as copies of their published work.
Application Requirements
- All journalists from Southern Africa (SADC Member States + Kenya) between the ages of 25 and 40 who regularly work for a media organisation are eligible to apply.
Benefits
Southern African delegates receive a fixed bursary of €3,500. This is expected to cover most of their travel, accommodation, and living expenses. No further payments will be provided, and delegates are expected to cover any additional costs using their own funds. Payment for work carried out for host media outlets is not envisaged.
Application Document
Application Documents:
- A comprehensive CV (including a passport photograph) detailing your education, work experience, and language skills in English and German (enclose relevant certificates, e.g. Goethe-Institut or TOEFL, if available)
- An 800-word essay addressing the following topics:
o Why would you like to work in Germany?
o What are the three research topics you plan to pursue during the fellowship?
o What role do you expect to play at your home media in the future?
o How do you plan to spend the bursary? - Work samples: Two representative articles written by you. TV and radio journalists should submit scripts and/or online links.
- Reference: A journalistic reference from your editor-in-chief or head of department is required (freelancers may submit a reference from a senior journalist). The letter must also explicitly guarantee a leave of absence for the duration of the programme.
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