Deadline Date: January 30, 2026
The African Union is accepting applications for its Kofi Annan Fellowship Program to support aspirational public health leaders in Africa to acquire advanced skills to strategize, manage and lead public health programmes that will transform public health on the continent.
Fellows admitted will lead and contribute to the implementation of the Africa’s Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda and the new public health order for Africa and help shape the next generation of leaders.
The opportunity is open to senior public health professionals from African Union Member States who have backgrounds in One Health, human medicine, sexual & reproductive health, public mental health, animal health, finance, health policy, epidemiology and related fields.
The fellowship provides full access to digital and residential learning resources, along with travel, insurance and daily allowances during residential placements. Participants also receive software support for online learning to ensure effective engagement throughout the programme.
Applicants must be citizens of an African Union Member State and hold a postgraduate degree in a public health–related field. They are required to have at least ten years of professional experience after completing their Master’s degree and be employed full time in a public or private health institution. Demonstrated or potential leadership capacity is also a key requirement.
Selection is conducted by an independent committee of experts from the African Union Commission, Africa CDC and global partners. The selection process upholds equal opportunity principles to ensure representation of women and underrepresented groups.
Applications must be submitted online and should include an employer support letter confirming full participation, two recommendation letters, a personal statement of no more than 400 words demonstrating public health commitment and vision, and a leadership challenge project proposal of no more than 400 words. Incomplete submissions and applications sent by email will not be considered.
The application deadline is 30 January 2026, with applicants to be notified by 30 April 2026, and the programme scheduled to begin on 1 June 2026.
