Deadline: November 20, 2025
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program 2026 at AfDB is now open for applications. This prestigious fellowship offers emerging African leaders the opportunity to gain valuable experience in leadership and strategic policy at the African Development Bank (AfDB). With a generous stipend, exposure to high-level networks, and unique mentorship opportunities, the programme is designed to prepare outstanding professionals for senior leadership roles across Africa.
About the Fellowship
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship is a 12-month programme established in partnership with the African Development Bank. It provides selected fellows with the chance to work at the Bank’s highest levels, contributing to decision-making, policy development, and strategic initiatives.
The fellowship aims to nurture future African leaders by exposing them to the inner workings of one of Africa’s premier development institutions, thereby equipping them to make impactful contributions in their home countries and the continent at large.
Benefits
Successful fellows of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program 2026 at AfDB will receive:
- Stipend: A competitive monthly stipend fully funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
- Travel coverage: Costs related to official Bank missions, including travel insurance.
- Networking: Access to high-level policy discussions, strategy design, and leadership experience.
- Capacity building: Work alongside senior executives and thought leaders in Africa’s foremost development bank.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an African country (residence can be anywhere).
- Age: Applicants must be aged 40 years or below; women with children may apply up to age 45 years.
- Academic background: At least a Master’s degree in fields such as economics, finance, development, or related social sciences.
- Professional experience: Minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in policy design, leadership, project management, and strategic planning.
- Exclusions: Current or former AfDB staff, individuals with close relatives at AfDB, government officials, political party leaders, and active military personnel are not eligible to apply.
- Skills: Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work in diverse teams.
Application Process
Interested applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- A comprehensive CV.
- Academic transcripts.
- Three letters of recommendation highlighting leadership skills, achievements, and potential.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: 20 November 2025
Early application is strongly encouraged as late submissions will not be considered.
Why Apply?
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship is more than a stipend and title—it is a launchpad into leadership at the continental level. Fellows will gain rare exposure to strategy-making, global best practices, and collaborative solutions to Africa’s most pressing development challenges.
Application Links
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
