Fellowship

Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026

Posted on: 23 Sep, 2025 Deadline: 20 Nov, 2025

The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships, established by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in 2011, aim to identify and mentor the next generation of exceptional African leaders. Each year, three fellows are placed in executive offices of partner institutions: the African Development Bank (Abidjan), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (Addis Ababa), or the International Trade Centre (Geneva).

The 12-month fellowship provides a $100,000 stipend, exposure to high-level decision-making, technical and leadership skill development, and direct mentorship from institutional heads. Fellows also join the Now Generation Network (NGN) for continuous engagement in Africa’s development.

Summary

Application Deadline: October 20, 2025 (varies by host institution)
Value: $100,000 stipend for 12 months
Study Level: Fellowship
Sponsor: Mo Ibrahim Foundation
Eligible Country: African countries

Eligibility Criteria for Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026

National of an African country
minimum 7 years' of relevant work experience
Master’s degree
under the age of 40; or 45 for women with children
any additional criteria as set by the host.

Benefits of Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026

$100,000 stipend for one year
Placement at AfDB, UNECA, or ITC executive offices
Direct mentorship from host institution leaders
Technical, governance, and leadership training
Membership in the Mo Ibrahim Now Generation Network (NGN)

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships are now open. Details and ho to apply can be found at the following links:

Fellowships are open annually to young professionals, mid-career and new executives from Africa with relevant work experience and a master’s degree.

For more details, visit Mo Ibrahim Foundation Fellowships webpage

Application Deadline

November 20, 2025

Application Link(s)

Apply for Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026

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Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026

The 12-month fellowship provides a $100,000 stipend, exposure to high-level decision-making, technical and leadership skill development, and direct mentorship from institutional heads. Fellows also join the Now Generation Network (NGN) for continuous engagement in Africa’s development.

Eligibility Criteria for Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship 2026