Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2027

The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship gives selected African professionals the opportunity to work for 12 months in the executive offices of three major institutions: the African Development Bank in Abidjan, the UN Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, or the International Trade Centre in Geneva. Fellows contribute to policy work, research and institutional priorities while receiving direct mentorship from senior institutional leaders. The programme combines practical exposure to regional and international policy processes with leadership development and professional networking. Three fellows are selected annually. Applicants should review the Foundation's requirements for nationality, academic qualifications, relevant experience and other eligibility conditions. The fellowship provides a USD 100,000 stipend and is intended for individuals rather than organisations or businesses.

Mo Ibrahim Foundation is offering this fellowship to African professionals with relevant experience and a master's degree who meet the fellowship selection criteria across African nationals. It is designed for ventures working in Governance, Economic Development, Public Policy at the Experienced professional stage.

The opportunity offers USD 100,000 stipend for a 12-month fellowship, with support including USD 100,000 stipend, 12-month placement at AfDB, UNECA or ITC, Senior leadership mentorship and professional networking. Applications are scheduled to close on 2026-11-20. Review the eligibility, required materials and application guidance below before continuing to the organiser’s website.

• USD 100,000 stipend
• 12-month placement at AfDB, UNECA or ITC
• Senior leadership mentorship and professional networking

• Eligible African nationals with relevant work experience and a master's degree
• Experienced professionals preparing for senior leadership roles
• Placements in Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia or Switzerland; check each host institution's criteria

1. 1Read the eligibility criteria twice before drafting.
2. 2Quantify your impact — numbers speak louder than adjectives.
3. 3Tell a founder-first story. Panels remember people, not products.
4. 4Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline.