Deadline: March 31, 2026
The Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship 2026 is a flagship programme designed to build a skilled network of emergency management professionals across Africa. Hosted by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the fellowship provides advanced training in public health emergency management, strengthening the continent’s capacity to respond effectively to health threats.
About the Fellowship
The Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship is a structured training initiative aimed at equipping African public health professionals with the technical expertise and leadership skills required to manage public health emergencies.
This competitive programme brings together mid-career professionals from across Africa to enhance their understanding of public health emergency operations and strengthen emergency management systems within their respective countries.
Programme Duration and Structure
The fellowship runs for approximately six months and follows a blended format, combining both in-person and online learning modules.
Key Components:
- In-Person Training: Intensive classroom sessions held at Africa CDC Headquarters in Addis Ababa, covering key areas of emergency management, response coordination, and public health leadership.
- Field Placement: Hands-on experience at national or regional Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOC) across Africa.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Fellows are paired with experienced mentors who guide them through practical emergency management exercises.
- Simulation and Drills: Participants engage in simulated emergency response operations to strengthen their crisis management skills.
- Study Tours: Organised visits to selected public health institutions and partner organisations for practical exposure to real-world emergency systems.
Upon completion, fellows are expected to apply their new knowledge and skills in strengthening public health emergency management systems within their home countries.
Learning Outcomes
Through the Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship 2026, participants will:
- Gain comprehensive knowledge of emergency preparedness and response frameworks.
- Develop leadership skills for managing multi-sectoral health emergencies.
- Understand how to design, coordinate, and evaluate emergency operations.
- Build a network of professionals and mentors in the field of public health emergency management.
- Become part of a growing continental community of emergency management experts.
Target Audience
The fellowship targets mid-career public health professionals working in Africa who are actively involved in emergency management and response systems.
Ideal candidates include individuals working in:
- Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs)
- Ministries of Health or related government agencies
- National and regional health institutions
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) involved in health emergencies
- Research or academic institutions focused on health systems and outbreak response
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African Union Member State.
- Hold a postgraduate degree (Master’s level or higher) in public health or a related field.
- Have a minimum of five years of experience in public health, emergency preparedness, outbreak response, or a related discipline.
- Be currently employed in a public health role within Africa.
- Demonstrate a commitment to strengthening emergency management systems in their country or region.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will benefit from:
- Expert-led training in all aspects of public health emergency management.
- Practical experience in emergency preparedness and response operations.
- Access to mentorship from senior emergency management professionals.
- Opportunities for professional networking and collaboration across Africa.
- Inclusion in the Africa CDC alumni network of trained PHEM professionals.
Graduates are expected to return to their home institutions and contribute to the strengthening of public health systems and the establishment or enhancement of PHEOCs.
Programme Timeline
While the 2026 application dates will be announced officially, previous fellowship cycles have typically followed this timeline:
- Application period: August to September
- Programme start date: November
- Duration: Six months of blended learning (classroom, field, and mentorship)
Applicants are encouraged to check official updates regularly for confirmed 2026 dates.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the programme, fellows will be able to:
- Lead the design and operation of emergency management systems.
- Strengthen coordination mechanisms for national and regional responses.
- Apply Africa CDC’s standard frameworks for emergency response.
- Contribute to building resilient health systems across the continent.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare early by gathering the necessary academic and professional documents. The official application process will require submission of:
- A completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of relevant qualifications and employment
Conclusion
The Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for African professionals committed to leading and transforming public health emergency systems on the continent. By joining this fellowship, participants not only gain technical expertise but also contribute to the long-term vision of a safer, healthier, and more resilient Africa.
Apply and Learn More
👉 Click here to apply for the Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship 2026
👉 Click here to read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
