2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program

• Stimulate debate on good governance in Africa.
• Provide benchmarks for citizens and governments to measure progress.
• Recognize outstanding achievements in African leadership.
• Support aspiring leaders in building positive legacies on the continent.

In partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Foundation finances the prestigious Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship, offering talented individuals an opportunity to gain hands-on leadership experience at the highest level.

Program Objectives

The Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship prepares the next generation of outstanding African leaders by placing them in senior roles within prominent African institutions or multilateral organizations. Fellows gain invaluable exposure to policy, governance, and development strategies aimed at improving Africa’s economic and social prospects.

The 2026 Fellowship will take place at the headquarters of the African Development Bank in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, or any other location where the Bank operates.

Contract Terms and Duration

• The Fellow will receive an annual stipend paid monthly by the African Development Bank, funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
• The appointment will last for 12 months, with no guarantee of employment at the end of the Fellowship.
• Official mission travel expenses (excluding relocation and repatriation) will be covered by the Bank.
• The Fellow must provide their own medical insurance, retirement plan, and child education arrangements.
• The Fellow will sign a contract with the Bank and comply with its Staff Regulations during the Fellowship period.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the guidance of the Bank’s President, Senior Vice President, and other senior leaders, the Fellow will:

• Design, develop, and implement innovative approaches to strategic issues aligned with the Bank’s mission.
• Conduct research and analysis on policies, programs, and strategies relevant to AfDB’s objectives.
• Monitor and analyze the implementation of various Bank initiatives and prepare reports, memos, and briefs.
• Participate in high-level meetings and contribute to preparing the President’s missions.
• Carry out other tasks assigned by senior staff in the President’s office.

Selection Criteria

The 2026 Fellowship will focus on AfDB’s “High 5” priorities:

1. Lighting up and powering Africa
2. Feeding Africa
3. Industrializing Africa
4. Integrating Africa
5. Improving the quality of life for the people of Africa

Eligibility requirements include:

• Must be a national of an African country (residing anywhere in the world).
• Age limit: 40 years for men and women; 45 years for women with children.
• Minimum of a Master’s degree in a relevant field (economics, finance, international development, social sciences, etc.).
• At least seven (7) years of relevant work experience with demonstrated leadership skills.
• Outstanding academic credentials and strong communication abilities.
• Experience in strategic planning, policy formulation, project execution, and data analysis.
• Not currently a staff member or close relative of a Bank employee.
• Government officials, political party leaders, and active military personnel are not eligible.

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete the online application form available on the African Development Bank website:

Apply Here – 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program

Application Deadline: 20 November 2025

Required Documents:

• Comprehensive CV including date of birth, nationality, education, and work experience.
• Copies of academic transcripts.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation.

The Bank’s Human Resources Department will shortlist ten candidates for review by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. Three finalists will be presented to the President of the Bank for the final selection.

Only candidates who meet all requirements and are considered for interview will be contacted.

Important Notes

• This is a one-year contract, not a permanent position.
• The African Development Bank does not request payment at any stage of the recruitment process.
• The Bank does not accept dual nationality; applicants must declare their nationality.
• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must be nationals of AfDB member countries.

If you encounter technical difficulties, contact HRDirect@AFDB.ORG with details of the issue.