The global climate movement continues to rely on bold, innovative, and community-driven leaders—and the Wangari Maathai Fellowship (WMF) Cohort II – 2026 is designed to nurture exactly that. Organized by The Climate Hub Tanzania with the support of Climate-KIC, the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania, and the Segal Family Foundation, this fellowship empowers young Tanzanian leaders to take meaningful climate action.
Named after the iconic Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize and founder of the Green Belt Movement, this fellowship carries forward her legacy of environmental stewardship, grassroots activism, and sustainable development.
Why the Wangari Maathai Fellowship Matters
Africa is among the regions most affected by climate change, yet it is also home to some of the most innovative grassroots solutions. However, many young leaders face barriers such as:
- Limited access to funding
- Lack of mentorship and structured guidance
- Insufficient exposure to policy engagement
The Wangari Maathai Fellowship directly addresses these gaps by combining financial support, mentorship, and capacity building, enabling young leaders to implement impactful, community-based climate solutions.
About the 2026 Fellowship Cohort
Building on the success of its first cohort in 2025, the 2026 program will:
- Select 15 fellows from across Tanzania
- Run for 8 months (April–November 2026)
- Operate in a hybrid format (in-person and virtual)
- Provide seed funding and mentorship for real-world climate projects
This fellowship is not just a training program—it is a launchpad for climate leadership and innovation.
What Fellows Will Receive
Financial Support
Each selected fellow will receive:
- A €500 sub-grant to implement their climate project
This funding is specifically designed to help fellows turn their ideas into tangible impact within their communities.
Capacity Building and Training
Participants will benefit from:
- Structured learning sessions on climate policy and advocacy
- Training in project design and implementation
- Personal and professional development workshops
- Exposure to real-world climate challenges and solutions
Mentorship and Networking
Fellows will gain access to:
- Personalized mentorship from climate experts
- Networking opportunities with policymakers and practitioners
- Participation in climate-related events and discussions
This creates a strong ecosystem of support, collaboration, and growth.
Hands-On Project Implementation
A key component of the fellowship is the Climate Action Impact Project, where fellows will:
- Design and implement solutions in areas such as:
- Sustainable agriculture
- Clean energy
- Reforestation
- Water conservation
- Community advocacy
This ensures that learning is translated into real, measurable impact.
Post-Fellowship Opportunities
The fellowship goes beyond the 8-month program:
- Top 3 projects will receive extended support
- Opportunities for scaling and partnerships
- Potential participation in regional and international climate conferences
- Increased visibility for fellows and their work
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be 18 to 30 years old
- Be fluent in English and Kiswahili (spoken and written)
- Be based in Tanzania at the time of application
- Have completed some level of formal education
- Demonstrate active engagement in climate or environmental initiatives
- Present a feasible and impactful climate project idea
Applicants are expected to show passion, leadership, and a commitment to community-driven solutions.
Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
The The Climate Hub Tanzania strongly promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Applications are highly encouraged from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- Individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds
This ensures that climate leadership reflects the diversity of communities affected by environmental challenges.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Wangari Maathai Fellowship 2026 is:
5 April 2026
Late applications may not be considered, so early submission is strongly recommended.
Final Thoughts
The Wangari Maathai Fellowship is more than a program—it is a movement to empower the next generation of climate leaders in Tanzania.
If you have a vision for environmental change and a project that can make a difference, this fellowship provides the tools, support, and platform to bring that vision to life.
Discover more opportunities here
