Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme 2027

The Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are an annual programme launched in 2011 to identify and mentor outstanding African leaders for 12 months. Fellows work at the African Development Bank (AfDB), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), or International Trade Centre (ITC), receiving a $100,000 stipend while gaining technical and leadership skills through mentorship from senior executives. Fellows join the Now Generation Network (NGN), continuing to contribute to Africa’s development post-programme.

What it offers

• 12-month fellowship at one of three host organisations: AfDB (Abidjan), ECA (Addis Ababa), or ITC (Geneva).
• $100,000 stipend during the programme.
• Direct mentorship from heads of host organisations.
• Exposure to policy design and research while contributing to projects.
• Membership in the Now Generation Network (NGN) for ongoing leadership support.

Who can apply

• African nationals under 40 years old (or 45 for women with children).
• Minimum 7 years of relevant work experience.
• Master’s degree required.
• Additional criteria may be set by the host organisation (e.g., specific roles at AfDB, ECA, or ITC).

How to apply

• Applications are open annually; 2027 applications are currently open.
• Detailed application steps and links to host organisation websites are provided on the Mo Ibrahim Foundation website.
• Specific instructions for applying to AfDB, ECA, or ITC are available in English and French on their respective pages.

Good to know

• Fellowships are not fully funded—a $100,000 stipend is provided, but no tuition, flights, or accommodation coverage is mentioned.
• The programme targets young professionals and mid-career executives with leadership potential.
• Past fellows are listed on the Mo Ibrahim Foundation website.