Deadline: February 27, 2026
The African Union Continental Capacity Building Training Program 2026 is a fully funded continental initiative designed to strengthen youth participation in democratic governance, peacebuilding, leadership, and electoral processes across Africa. Organised by the African Union Commission (AUC), this prestigious programme will convene young leaders from across the continent at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
If you are a young African passionate about governance, civic engagement, and peace and security, the African Union Continental Capacity Building Training Program 2026 presents a unique opportunity to gain high-level training and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development agenda.
About the Programme
The training is organised through the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) under the African Governance Architecture – African Peace and Security Architecture (AGA-APSA) Secretariat of the African Union.
The programme aligns with:
- The AU’s shared values framework
- The African Governance Architecture (AGA)
- The African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA)
- The African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG)
- Agenda 2063
Its core objective is to empower African youth with practical knowledge, technical skills, and policy understanding to actively engage in democratic governance, electoral processes, leadership, and peacebuilding initiatives at national and continental levels.
Programme Location and Dates
- Host Institution: African Union Commission Headquarters
- Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Scheduled Period: April 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed by organisers)
Participants will convene physically at the AU Headquarters for an intensive, high-level continental training experience.
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be an African citizen from an AU Member State
- Be aged 18–35 years at the time of application
- Demonstrate active involvement or strong commitment to:
- Youth participation
- Democratic governance
- Leadership development
- Peace and security initiatives
- Electoral processes
- Have experience working with:
- Civil society organisations
- Youth-led initiatives
- National governance institutions
- Democracy and accountability platforms
- Be willing to:
- Fully participate in the training programme
- Cascade and replicate knowledge gained within their communities
- Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Selection Criteria
Participants will be selected based on:
- Strength and clarity of their motivation statement
- Demonstrated track record in governance, civic engagement, or youth participation
- Potential to apply and multiply the impact of the training locally
- Commitment to democratic values and AU shared principles
- Regional representation and gender balance considerations
The selection process aims to ensure diversity, inclusivity, and equitable representation across AU Member States.
Financial Coverage (Fully Funded Benefits)
The programme is fully funded by the African Union Commission. Selected participants will receive:
- International round-trip airfare
- Visa support (where required)
- Accommodation during the training
- Full participation in the training sessions
- No application or participation fees
This ensures equal access for qualified youth leaders across Africa, regardless of financial background.
Application Deadline
- Deadline: 27 February 2026
- Time: 11:55 PM (Addis Ababa Time, GMT+3)
Late applications will not be considered, so early submission is strongly advised.
Why You Should Apply
The African Union Continental Capacity Building Training Program 2026 offers:
- Direct engagement with continental governance frameworks
- High-level exposure at the African Union Headquarters
- Capacity strengthening in leadership, peace, and electoral processes
- Networking opportunities with young leaders from across Africa
- A platform to contribute to Agenda 2063 and democratic consolidation
This is more than a training — it is a continental platform to shape Africa’s governance future.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates should complete the official online application form before the deadline.
🔗 Read More About the Programme
If you would like professional support with drafting, refining, or reviewing your motivation statement and application, contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
