The Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme is a high-level initiative by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) in partnership with the Kofi Annan Foundation. Designed for senior public health professionals across the African Union, this 12-month fellowship focuses on bridging the leadership gap in the continent’s health sector. By providing full financial support and a hybrid learning model combining online modules with intensive residential placements. The program empowers fellows to implement a “New Public Health Order” for Africa.
Kofi Annan Fellowship Summary Table
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Body | African Union (Africa CDC) |
| Program Name | Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme |
| Study Level | Professional Fellowship (Post-Master’s) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Travel + Stipend + Resources) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All African Union Member States |
| Application Fee | Free |
| Professional Req. | 10+ Years Post-Master’s Experience |
| Application Deadline | January 30, 2026 |
About the Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme
The Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme is aimed at supporting aspirational public health leaders from Africa in acquiring advanced skills and competencies to strategize, manage, and lead public health programmes that will transform public health in Africa.
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Fellows admitted into the programme are senior professionals who contribute to and lead the implementation of a new public health order for the continent. The program emphasizes a hybrid approach, allowing participants to maintain their full-time employment while engaging in world-class digital learning and exclusive residential placements at leading African health institutions.
Kofi Annan Fellowship Benefits
Tier 1: Primary Financial Support (Full Funding Package)
- Full Program Coverage: Africa CDC meets all costs associated with the 12-month fellowship, ensuring no financial burden on the participant or their employer.
- Residential Stipends: During the 8-week residential placements, fellows receive comprehensive daily allowances to cover all personal needs.
Tier 2: Travel and Logistics Support
- Airfare and Insurance: The fellowship provides round-trip travel to residential sites and full health/travel insurance for the duration of the placements.
- Digital Learning Infrastructure: Fellows are provided with necessary software support and high-quality digital resources to facilitate remote learning.
Tier 3: Professional Development and Mentorship
- High-Level Mentorship: Access to a network of global health experts and former health ministers who serve as mentors and coaches.
- Institutional Exposure: Exclusive placements at organizations like WHO AFRO, the African Development Bank, and the African Union Commission.
Eligibility Requirements for Kofi Annan Fellowship
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of an African Union (AU) Member State.
- Academic Qualification: Must possess a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in a public health-related field.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in public health acquired after the completion of a Master’s degree.
- Employment Status: Candidates must be in full-time employment in a public or private health institution in Africa.
- Leadership Capacity: Must demonstrate a proven track record or potential for impactful leadership in the public health sector.
How to Apply for Kofi Annan Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Access the Portal: Visit the official Africa CDC website or the AU careers portal to access the online application form for Cohort 6.
- Prepare Mandatory Documents: Ensure you have your Personal Statement (400 words), Leadership Challenge Project Proposal (400 words), and two recommendation letters ready.
- Employer Endorsement: Obtain a formal letter from your current employer confirming they support your full participation and time release for residential sessions.
- Online Submission: Complete the application through the Impact Africa CDC portal. Note that email submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Deadline: January 30, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there an age limit for the Kofi Annan Fellowship?
There is no specific age limit; however, the requirement for 10 years of post-Master’s experience typically targets senior-level professionals.
2. Can I apply if I am currently unemployed?
No, the program requires full-time employment in a health institution to ensure that skills can be immediately applied to a “Leadership Challenge Project.”
3. Which countries host the residential placements?
Placements vary but often include Ethiopia (Africa CDC HQ), Kenya, and other leading African public health hubs.
4. Do I need an IELTS score to apply?
No, English proficiency is assessed through your personal statement and interviews, but a formal test score is not mandatory.
5. What is the “Leadership Challenge Project”?
It is a practical project fellows design and implement within their current organization to solve a specific public health leadership problem.
6. Is this a full-time residency?
No, it is a hybrid program. Most of the 12 months are spent in your home country, with only 8 weeks total dedicated to residential sessions.
7. Are women encouraged to apply?
Yes, the selection process strictly upholds equal opportunity principles, and senior women leaders are strongly encouraged to apply.
8. What disciplines are considered “public health-related”?
Relevant fields include human medicine, animal health (One Health), health economics, epidemiology, nutrition, and health policy.
9. Will I receive a degree at the end?
Fellows receive a prestigious Certificate of Completion from the Africa CDC and the Kofi Annan Foundation.
10. When will I be notified if my application is successful?
Applicants are typically notified by April 30, 2026, with the program officially commencing on June 1, 2026.
