Application Deadline: March 22, 2026
Applications are currently being accepted for the AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship Programme spanning 2026 to 2028. This prestigious initiative unites Africa’s most promising young leaders with top-tier German corporations. Participating companies gain invaluable insights, expertise, and access to local networks through these talented African professionals, who in turn immerse themselves in the distinctive features of German business culture, corporate practices, and societal norms.
The AFRIKA KOMMT! fellowship represents a unique, transformative one-year journey for gifted African professionals, designed to elevate their careers and personal growth. It targets young, exceptional individuals eager to broaden their abilities, acquire new knowledge, and embrace challenges beyond their comfort zones. The programme is committed to empowering emerging leaders to contribute to their countries' economic and social progress by fostering sustainable partnerships with German industrial players.
Programme Overview
The heart of the AFRIKA KOMMT! fellowship is a year-long residency in Germany, where selected African participants engage actively in their assigned German partner companies. Throughout this period, fellows receive hands-on training and professional mentorship. Complementary elements organized by GIZ enrich the experience, including tailored language instruction, specialized workshops, and opportunities for networking.
- Selection Process: The selection of fellows is rigorous and customized, conducted in close collaboration with the partnering firms to ensure alignment with company needs and fellow aspirations.
- Language and Cultural Preparation: Prior to their arrival in Germany, fellows undergo German language courses and cultural orientation to facilitate smooth integration; visits to historical and cultural landmarks are also included.
- Management Development: Participants complete three intensive management training modules focusing on contemporary global leadership skills, intercultural competence, project and change management, and conflict resolution.
- Professional Internship: Fellows dedicate eight months to working on meaningful projects within their partner companies, gaining valuable professional experience.
- Networking and Community: Regular events bring together the African fellows and German companies to exchange knowledge, build relationships, and collaborate on joint initiatives.
- Alumni Engagement: Upon completing the programme, fellows become ambassadors for knowledge and skills transfer in their home countries. They participate in refresher courses, held either in Germany or Africa, to further develop their expertise and maintain connections within the AFRIKA KOMMT! network.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold citizenship in any African country
- Possess a university degree in a relevant field
- A postgraduate qualification such as an MBA is advantageous
- Have between two and five years of professional work experience
- Demonstrate excellent proficiency in English
- Basic knowledge of German is a plus but not mandatory
- Be no older than 35 years at the time of application
Selection Criteria
Besides academic and professional qualifications, applicants should exhibit the following qualities:
- Language & Communication: Effective oral and written communication skills with a strong eagerness to learn German
- Professional Competencies: Demonstrated leadership potential, high initiative, dedication, and goal-orientation, along with strong teamwork capabilities
- Personal Attributes: Enthusiasm, adaptability, resilience, an open and intercultural mindset, quick adjustment to new environments, and the ability to critically reflect on personal behavior and biases
Programme Structure: Three Phases
| Phase | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection and Preparation |
|
| One-Year Stay in Germany |
|
| Alumni Phase |
|
Additional Information
For those interested in applying or learning more about this fully funded programme that fosters dynamic leadership and cross-cultural collaboration, detailed information and the application portal are available online.
Visit the Official Webpage of the AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship Programme
