Umholi we Africa Fellowship (UwA) – Cohort 4, 2026

The Umholi we Africa Fellowship is now accepting applications for its fourth cohort. Led by the AL for Governance Network and fully funded by the Efrusy Family Foundation, this fellowship develops the next generation of ethical, mission-driven African public leaders. Launched in 2023, UwA places exceptional young Africans in high-impact government and policy roles within their home countries, enabling them to contribute directly to national development and institutional transformation.

Location: Home country placement
Duration: 12 months (with possible extension to 18 months)
Start Date: July 2026
Application Deadline: December 30, 2025

Fellows work alongside ministers, members of parliament, and senior public officials, gaining hands-on experience in governance, policymaking, research, and public sector leadership. Since its launch, 30 fellows have served across Africa. The program is fully funded, and fellows receive a monthly stipend.

 

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Key Responsibilities

Fellows will support senior public leaders through:

• Research, data collection, and policy analysis
• Project planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation
• Drafting policy briefs, reports, speeches, and communication materials
• Stakeholder consultations and community engagement
• Participation in leadership training, coaching, and mentorship through AL for Governance

 

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Candidate Profile

UwA seeks young Africans who demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to public service and ethical leadership
• Clear interest in governance, policymaking, or political leadership
• Strong analytical, research, and interpersonal skills
• Desire to contribute to public sector transformation and civic engagement

 

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Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be African nationals
• Be graduates of the African Leadership Academy (ALA) or Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Hold a minimum of a university degree
• Have at least 4 years of professional experience
• Demonstrate passion for public leadership and public service

 

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Key Dates

• Applications Open: November 7, 2025
• Applications Close: December 30, 2025
• Interviews: January – February 2026
• Pre-Fellowship Training: May 2026

 

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How to Apply

• Download the application form here.
• Submit the completed form, CV, and academic qualifications through the ACN Careers Portal.

 

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About the Umholi we Africa Fellowship

UwA is a premier leadership pathway designed to increase youth representation in Africa’s public sector. The fellowship places young leaders in strategic roles that drive national development and strengthen government capacity. Each cohort gains access to mentorship, leadership development, and a continental network committed to advancing ethical governance.

For more information, click here.

 

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About AL for Governance

The AL for Governance Network addresses the critical gap in youth representation across African public sectors. With over 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, the network empowers young leaders to influence policy, strengthen institutions, and contribute to effective governance across the continent. It facilitates pathways into public service and builds intergenerational mentorship networks that foster long-term impact.

 

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The Umholi we Africa Fellowship (UwA) is a fully funded 12-month leadership program designed to place exceptional young African professionals in high-impact government and policy roles in their home countries. Run by AL for Governance and supported by the Efrusy Family Foundation, the fellowship equips emerging leaders with real-world experience in governance, policy analysis, project management, and public service. Open to graduates of the African Leadership Academy and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, UwA prepares ethical, mission-driven leaders committed to transforming governance across the continent. Applications for Cohort 4 are open until December 30, 2025.

 

For more opportunities, click here.