The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026 for emerging African Leaders (Fully Funded to work at AfDB, UNECA & ITC with an Annual Stipend of $100,000).

Application Deadline: November 20, 2025

Applications are now open for the 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme. The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships were established in 2011 to identify and mentor the future generation of outstanding African leaders.

Benefits

• Each year three Fellows have an opportunity to work in the executive offices of the AfDB (Abidjan), ECA (Addis Ababa) or the ITC (Geneva), with a stipend of $100,000. 
• During their 12-month programmes, Fellows gain both technical and leadership skills, while contributing directly to research and policy design. A special feature of the programme is the opportunity to benefit from the direct mentorship of the heads of the host organisations. 
• Fellows also become members of the Now Generation Network (NGN), through which they continue to contribute their skills and insights to building a better Africa.

Eligibility criteria

• National of an African country
• minimum 7 years’ of relevant work experience
• Master’s degree
• under the age of 40; or 45 for women with children
• any additional criteria as set by the host.

Application process

Applications for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are now open. Details and ho to apply can be found at the following links:

• AfDB
• ITC
• UNECA

Fellowships are open annually to young professionals, mid-career and new executives from Africa with relevant work experience and a master’s degree.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme