Application Deadline: 30 January 2026
Applications are currently being accepted for the 2026 cohort of the Africa-CDC/Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership Programme. This prestigious fellowship is designed to empower emerging public health leaders across Africa by equipping them with advanced competencies necessary to design, oversee, and lead impactful public health initiatives that will drive the continent’s health transformation.
Selected fellows will play a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda as well as fostering the continent’s new public health order. They will be instrumental in shaping the future cadre of health leaders who will champion sustainable health development in Africa.
Since its inception, the fellowship has proudly graduated 84 professionals hailing from more than 34 African nations. Alumni of the programme have gone on to spearhead groundbreaking health projects, author influential publications, establish cross-border collaborations, and even serve in high-profile government roles, including ministerial positions.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship welcomes applications from senior public health practitioners based in African Union Member States. Ideal candidates come from diverse backgrounds including but not limited to One Health, human medicine, sexual and reproductive health, public mental health, animal health, health economics and finance, health policy, and epidemiology.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a citizen of an African Union Member State.
- Possess a postgraduate degree in a field related to public health.
- Have accumulated at least 10 years of professional experience following the completion of their Master’s degree.
- Be employed full-time within either a public or private health institution.
- Demonstrate proven or emerging leadership capabilities in their area of expertise.
What the Fellowship Offers
- Comprehensive access to both digital and in-person learning materials and resources.
- Coverage for travel expenses, insurance, and daily allowances during on-site residencies.
- Provision of software tools needed to support online learning activities.
Selection Process
The fellowship recipients are chosen by an independent panel of specialists representing the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, and international partners. This rigorous selection process adheres to principles of equal opportunity, ensuring fair representation of women and other historically underrepresented groups within the fellowship cohort.
Application Instructions
Applicants are required to submit their applications through the official online portal. The application must include the following documents:
- A letter from the current employer endorsing the candidate’s full participation in the programme.
- Two letters of recommendation supporting the applicant’s qualifications and leadership potential.
- A personal statement (no longer than 400 words) articulating the candidate’s dedication to public health and their vision for impactful change.
- A proposal (maximum 400 words) presenting a leadership challenge project relevant to public health.
Applications submitted by email or those missing any required component will not be considered.
Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 30 January 2026 |
| Notification of Applicants | 30 April 2026 |
| Programme Commencement | 1 June 2026 |
For more detailed information and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Africa-CDC/Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership Programme.
