Are you a rising African professional looking to gain global leadership experience and make a lasting impact on the continent? The 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship, one of Africa’s most prestigious fellowships, is now accepting applications. With a $100,000 stipend, immersive international experience, and a direct path to policy influence, this is more than a fellowship — it’s a career-defining opportunity.
About the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship
Established by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation (MIF), the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship aims to develop the future stewards of African development. This 12-month leadership program places Fellows in influential African and global institutions, giving them first-hand exposure to policymaking, strategic project implementation, and high-level governance.
Program Objectives
- Build strategic leadership skills among African professionals.
- Offer direct access to policy and development work at the highest level.
- Strengthen networks of African changemakers for long-term collaboration.
This fellowship doesn’t just prepare individuals for future leadership — it puts them in the room where decisions happen.
Host Institutions for 2026
Each year, three exceptional candidates are selected and placed at one of the following globally respected organizations:
1. African Development Bank (AfDB) – Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
AfDB is Africa’s top development finance institution, responsible for financing infrastructure, trade, and inclusive growth initiatives across the continent.
2. International Trade Centre (ITC) – Geneva, Switzerland
A joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations, ITC focuses on empowering small businesses in developing countries to participate in global trade.
3. United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
UNECA works to foster regional economic integration and sustainable development by shaping economic policy and providing technical support to African nations.
Fellowship Benefits
The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026 provides outstanding financial, professional, and personal benefits that distinguish it from other programs.
Key Benefits Include:
- $100,000 annual stipend to fully support living expenses during the fellowship year.
- Hands-on experience working on high-impact projects with senior leaders.
- Mentorship and coaching from globally respected experts in economics, governance, and policy.
- Networking opportunities with influential organizations, institutions, and peers.
- Lifelong membership in the Now Generation Network (NGN) — a pan-African community of past fellows and emerging leaders committed to transforming Africa.
This fellowship is a gateway to global influence, enabling Fellows to gain not only experience but credibility and visibility on the international stage.
Eligibility Requirements
To ensure high-impact outcomes, the program seeks applicants who already have a proven track record and the potential to scale their leadership.
Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a citizen of an African country.
- Hold a Master’s degree or higher (or equivalent professional qualification).
- Have 7–10 years of relevant work experience in public service, development, economics, trade, or related fields.
- Be under 40 years of age, or under 45 for women with children.
- Fulfill any additional criteria set by each host institution (AfDB, ITC, UNECA).
Note: Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of French is advantageous for placements like AfDB.
How to Apply for the ibrahim leadership fellowship 2026.
Applications for the 2026 cohort are now officially open. Interested candidates must apply directly through the host institutions’ websites. Applicants should prepare:
- An updated CV/resume
- A compelling personal statement
- Academic and professional references
- Proof of nationality and education credentials
Deadline to Apply: November 20, 2025
Apply and learn more here: https://mo.ibrahim.foundation/fellowships
Early applications are encouraged due to the highly competitive nature of the program.
Life After the Fellowship
Fellows do not return to their careers the same. After one year immersed in policy and development work at the highest level, they re-enter the workforce with a sharper vision, stronger networks, and practical tools to make real impact.
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Many alumni have gone on to hold leadership positions in:
- National governments
- International NGOs
- UN agencies
- African Union institutions
- Social enterprises and think tanks
And through the Now Generation Network (NGN), they continue collaborating to advance Africa’s governance, economy, and global influence.
Why the Ibrahim Fellowship Matters
Africa is home to the world’s youngest population and holds immense promise for innovation, sustainability, and economic transformation. However, visionary leadership is critical to realizing that promise. The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship equips the next generation of leaders with the resources and experience needed to:
- Influence policy decisions.
- Design scalable, inclusive development programs.
- Represent African interests on the global stage.
By investing in people — not just projects — the Mo Ibrahim Foundation is cultivating a pipeline of ethical, effective, and visionary African leaders.
Final Words
If you’re ready to step into the arena of global leadership, make your mark, and help shape a stronger, more integrated Africa — the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026 is your chance.
With world-class mentorship, a generous stipend, and access to powerful global networks, this fellowship is not just a program — it’s a launchpad.
Apply now and become part of Africa’s leadership legacy.
