The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowships 2027 are now open to qualified African professionals looking to gain high-level experience within leading regional and international institutions. The programme allows selected Fellows to work directly within the executive offices of the African Development Bank, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, or the International Trade Centre.
The fellowship is particularly suited to professionals who already have substantial work experience and want to strengthen their leadership and policy skills.
What the Fellowship Is About
The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships were established to help develop the next generation of African leaders. Each year, three Fellows are selected for 12-month placements at one of the participating institutions.
During the fellowship, participants contribute to research and policy work while gaining practical experience in institutional leadership. Fellows also receive direct mentorship from the heads of their host organisations.
The 2027 placements are available at:
- African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan
- United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa
- International Trade Centre (ITC) in Geneva
Each Fellow receives a $100,000 stipend for the 12-month programme.
What Selected Fellows Receive
The programme offers more than financial support. Fellows get the chance to:
- Receive a $100,000 stipend.
- Gain 12 months of professional experience at a major international institution.
- Work on research and policy-related activities.
- Receive direct mentorship from senior institutional leaders.
- Build professional networks across African and international organisations.
- Develop technical and leadership skills.
- Join the Mo Ibrahim Foundation’s Now Generation Network after the fellowship.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a national of an African country.
- Hold a master’s degree.
- Have at least seven years of relevant professional experience.
- Be under 40 years old, or under 45 for women with children.
- Meet any additional requirements set by the particular host institution.
The fellowship is intended for young professionals, mid-career professionals and new executives with relevant experience.
Apply for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowships 2027
Applications are made through the individual host organisations rather than through one general Mo Ibrahim application portal.
Applicants should:
- Review the fellowship requirements on the Mo Ibrahim Foundation website.
- Choose the participating institution that matches their professional background.
- Check the specific vacancy and application requirements provided by the host organisation.
- Prepare the required CV, academic credentials, and supporting information.
- Submit the application through the relevant host institution before its deadline.
Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowships 2027 Deadline
Applications for the 2027 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships close on November 20, 2026.
However, applicants should still check the specific host institution’s instructions because additional requirements may apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Fellows are selected?
Three Fellows are selected each year, with placements at the AfDB, ECA, and ITC.
How much is the fellowship stipend?
Each Fellow receives a $100,000 stipend for the 12-month fellowship.
Can someone with only a bachelor’s degree apply?
No. The Foundation requires applicants to hold a master’s degree.
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