Call for Applications: Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships 2027

Application Deadline: Ongoing

About the Fellowships

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has officially opened applications for the 2027 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships; a prestigious leadership development programme designed for exceptional young and mid-career African professionals with the potential to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development. The fully funded 12-month fellowship provides selected fellows with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and professional exposure within the executive offices of leading international and African development institutions. Fellows will be placed within the executive offices of the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), or the International Trade Centre (ITC). The programme is intended to provide fellows with valuable opportunities to strengthen their leadership capabilities, gain first-hand experience in institutional decision-making and deepen their understanding of development policy and practice. Through their placement, fellows will work in professional environments where they can learn from experienced leaders and contribute to important areas of institutional and development work. In addition to the professional and leadership development opportunities, successful fellows will receive a US$100,000 stipend over the 12-month fellowship period. The financial support enables fellows to fully participate in the programme while gaining valuable experience within one of the participating institutions. The 2027 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships therefore offer an opportunity for outstanding African professionals to enhance their leadership experience, expand their professional networks and gain practical exposure to major development institutions. Interested and eligible applicants are encouraged to consider this opportunity and submit their applications for the 2027 fellowship programme.

Benefits of the Fellowships

Selected fellows receive a comprehensive package that includes:

• US$100,000 annual stipend
• Fully funded 12-month leadership fellowship
• Placement within a leading international institution
• Direct mentorship from executive leadership
• Experience in high-level policy research and programme design
• Membership in the Mo Ibrahim Foundation’s Now Generation Network
• Opportunity to contribute to Africa’s governance and development agenda
• The fellowship provides unparalleled exposure to international development, economic policy, trade, governance, and regional cooperation

Eligibility Requirements

• National of an African country
• Minimum 7 years of relevant work experience
• Master’s degree
• Under the age of 40; or 45 for women with children
• Any additional criteria as set by the host

Application Process

Interested applicants are encouraged to click on the link to the application website to apply.

How to Apply

Interested applicants Click Here to apply.

For More Information: Visit the Official Website of Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships