Côte d'Ivoire AfDB Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)

The 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program is an exclusive opportunity designed to nurture Africa’s next generation of transformative leaders. Hosted at the African Development Bank (AfDB) headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, this prestigious fellowship provides exceptional young and mid-career professionals from Africa with the chance to work at the highest levels of one of the continent’s most influential financial institutions. Through direct mentorship from AfDB’s senior executives, fellows gain invaluable insights into governance, strategic planning, and policy development—core skills needed to shape Africa’s sustainable future.

Since its inception in 2006, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation has been committed to improving governance and leadership standards across Africa. The Fellowship is one of its key initiatives, focusing on developing capable leaders who can drive positive change and economic progress within their home countries. By blending academic excellence, practical experience, and leadership exposure, the program strengthens the capacity of African professionals to lead effectively in both public and private sectors. Fellows emerge from the program with enhanced strategic vision, a deep understanding of development challenges, and a strong commitment to improving governance across the continent.

The 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging African leaders to gain hands-on experience at the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Established in 2006, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation supports good governance and leadership in Africa by nurturing a new generation of talented individuals committed to driving sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

Degree Level

The Fellowship is not an academic degree but a professional leadership development program. However, candidates must hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as banking, business, economics, finance, social sciences, international development, or related fields aligned with the Bank’s operations.

Available Subjects

All subjects

Benefits

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation fully finances the Fellowship, which lasts 12 months. Key benefits include:

Annual stipend (paid monthly by AfDB).
Travel and mission-related expenses covered by the Bank.
Medical, child education, and retirement arrangements supported by the Foundation.
Opportunity to work closely with AfDB leadership including the President and senior executives.
A unique platform to build leadership capacity and policy experience in Africa’s top development institution.

Eligible Nationalities

Applicants must be nationals of African countries (residing anywhere in the world). Dual nationality is not accepted.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Be a national of an African country.
Be under 40 years old (or under 45 years for women with children).
Possess at least a Master’s degree in relevant disciplines.
Have a minimum of seven (7) years of professional experience in areas related to AfDB’s High 5 priorities:

Lighting up and powering Africa
Feeding Africa
Industrializing Africa
Integrating Africa
Improving the quality of life for the people of Africa

Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
Show proven ability in policy formulation, project execution, and strategic planning.
Must not be a current or former staff member of AfDB, nor have close family relations with one.
Government officials, active military personnel, and political party leaders are not eligible.

Application Procedure

Apply online through the AfDB career portal: Apply here.
Submit a comprehensive CV (including date of birth, nationality, education, and experience).
Attach academic transcripts and three recommendation letters.
Application Deadline: 20 November 2025.
Shortlisted applicants will undergo AfDB vetting, followed by a final selection by the Foundation.

Selection Process:

Initial screening by AfDB HR to shortlist ten (10) candidates.
Review by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation.
Final selection of three (3) top candidates for the Fellowship by the AfDB President or designate.

Important Notes

The Fellowship is non-renewable and does not guarantee employment at AfDB.
Fellows cannot apply for AfDB staff positions for one year after completing the program.
The AfDB is an equal opportunity employer; women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship?

Only nationals of African countries with a Master’s degree and at least seven years of professional experience in relevant fields are eligible to apply.

Is the Fellowship a paid position?

Yes. The selected Fellow will receive a fully funded annual stipend provided by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation through the African Development Bank.

Can current AfDB employees apply?

No. Current or former AfDB staff members, as well as individuals with close family ties to Bank employees, are not eligible.

What is the duration of the Fellowship?

The Fellowship runs for 12 months and is not renewable.

What is the main goal of the Fellowship?

The program aims to prepare future African leaders by providing them with strategic leadership exposure and practical experience in development policy, planning, and execution at AfDB.