The Mo Ibrahim Foundation is accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of its Leadership Fellowship. Specifically, this executive mentoring program helps outstanding African executives scale their impact through placements in multinational institutions. Consequently, selected leaders work directly with the heads of the African Development Bank or the UN Economic Commission for Africa to deploy continent-wide development strategies.
Program Overview This is an executive placement and pan-African policy program. Therefore, it is ideal for senior corporate or public sector managers who need multilateral institutional experience to serve Africa’s macroeconomic growth. By joining, you get access to the highest levels of global economic governance and a $100,000 stipend.
Key Benefits Participants receive high-value career and financial support. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Stipend: A highly competitive annual stipend of $100,000 for the 12-month fellowship.
- Placement: Direct assignment to the executive office of a host institution (AfDB, UNECA, or ITC).
- Mentorship: Unparalleled day-to-day mentoring from the institution’s Executive Director or President.
Eligibility Criteria To qualify, an applicant must be an African professional. Crucially, you must have an exceptional track record of executive leadership and management.
- Citizenship: Must be a national of an African country.
- Age: Must be under the age of 40 (or 45 for women with children) at the time of application.
- Education: Must hold a Master’s degree or PhD in economics, finance, business, or public administration.
Application Process
- Deadline: May 20, 2026.
- Submission: Apply directly via the respective host institution’s HR portal.
- Requirements: Comprehensive CV, cover letter, and three senior professional references.
