The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2027 is now open for applications. It supports talented African professionals who want to gain senior-level experience in policy, research, leadership, and development.
However, each year, three Fellows work in the executive offices of the African Development Bank in Abidjan, the UN Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, or the International Trade Centre in Geneva. The 12-month programme offers a $100,000 stipend.
Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2027 benefits
Selected Fellows will receive:
- A $100,000 stipend.
- A 12-month placement in a leading African or international institution.
- Direct mentorship from the head of the host organisation.
- Practical experience in policy design and research.
- Technical and leadership development.
- Exposure to high-level decision-making.
- Membership of the Now Generation Network after the programme.
- Opportunities to contribute to Africa’s development.
Also, the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship programme can help Fellows build the confidence, skills, and networks needed for future leadership roles.
Host institutions
Applicants may apply through one of these host organisations:
- African Development Bank: View the English application details.
- International Trade Centre: View the ITC vacancy.
- UN Economic Commission for Africa: View the programme and application details.
In addition each institution may set additional requirements and a different closing date. Therefore, review the relevant vacancy carefully before applying.
Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2027 Eligibility criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an African country.
- Hold a master’s degree.
- Have at least seven years of relevant work experience.
- Be under 40 years old.
- Be under 45 years old if they are women with children.
- Meet any additional host-institution requirements.
Also, the programme welcomes young professionals, mid-career specialists, and new executives with relevant experience.
Applicants can also explore other fellowship opportunities on OpportunityLab.
How to apply for the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2027
First, select the host institution that matches your career goals. Next, read its full vacancy notice and prepare the required documents.
Also, you will generally need academic records, a résumé, proof of work experience, and other materials requested by the host institution. Finally, submit your application through the official host-organisation portal.
Application deadline
The deadline is not the same for every host institution. Applicants should check the AfDB, ITC, or UNECA vacancy page for the exact closing date before submitting an application.
Start early because the programme offers only three Fellowships each year.
