Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2026 | $100,000 Fully Funded African Leadership Program

Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2026: Overview

The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships, established in 2011, aim to mentor the next generation of exceptional African leaders. Each year, three Fellows are selected to work in the executive offices of leading international organizations:

• African Development Bank (AfDB) – Abidjan

• United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) – Addis Ababa

• International Trade Centre (ITC) – Geneva

Over 12 months, Fellows receive direct mentorship from organizational leaders, contribute to policy and research, and develop advanced technical and leadership skills. Each fellowship is awarded with a $100,000 stipend.

Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2026: Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of an African country.

• Have a minimum of 7 years’ relevant work experience.

• Hold a Master’s degree.

• Be under 40 years old, or under 45 for women with children.

• Meet any additional requirements set by the host organization (AfDB, ITC, UNECA).

Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2026: Benefits

• $100,000 stipend for the 12-month program.

• Direct mentorship from heads of AfDB, ITC, or UNECA.

• Practical experience in policy design, leadership, and research.

• Membership in the Now Generation Network (NGN) for long-term leadership collaboration.

Fellowship/Program Components

• Placement: One year at AfDB (Abidjan), UNECA (Addis Ababa), or ITC (Geneva).

• Leadership Development: Training, mentorship, and executive exposure.

• Policy & Research: Active involvement in shaping African development strategies.

• Networking: Integration into the Now Generation Network for continuous engagement.

Application Requirements

Applicants are generally expected to submit:

• A completed application form via the host institution’s portal.

• An updated CV/resume.

• Proof of nationality (passport/ID).

• Academic qualifications (Master’s degree certificate).

• Professional references.

Selection Criteria

Fellows are chosen based on:

• Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to African development.

• Relevant professional experience (7+ years).

• Strong academic background (Master’s degree minimum).

• Ability to contribute effectively to policy, governance, and institutional goals.

Application Process

• Applications for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are now open.

• Candidates must apply directly to one of the host organizations:

  • AfDB (Abidjan)

  • ITC (Geneva)

  • UNECA (Addis Ababa)

• Review specific host criteria before applying.

• Successful applicants begin their fellowship in 2026.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2026 | $100,000 Fully Funded African Leadership Program